Klopp reveals Liverpool's incredible bid to sign Mbappe: 'Our most expensive non-transfer'

Jurgen Klopp has shared remarkable behind-the-scenes details of Liverpool's failed attempt to sign Kylian Mbappe, describing it as the club's "most expensive non-transfer" after going to extraordinary lengths to convince the French superstar to move to Anfield.

Speaking as a pundit for Magenta TV during the FIFA World Cup, the former Liverpool manager recalled how the Reds pursued Mbappe while he was still emerging as one of Europe's brightest young talents at Monaco.

According to Klopp, Liverpool even arranged an unforgettable meeting aboard a private jet in an effort to persuade the forward and his family to choose Merseyside.

"It was our most expensive non-transfer," Klopp admitted.

The German then revealed just how far Liverpool were prepared to go.

"We flew from Blackpool to Nice, where the entire Mbappe family boarded a private jet with what felt like five rooms. We really gave it everything. We flew around, spoke with the family and enjoyed some good food."

Klopp finally admits: ‘I’m ready’

At the time, Mbappe was attracting interest from several of Europe's biggest clubs, with Liverpool considered one of the leading contenders for his signature. However, Paris Saint-Germain ultimately secured the France international in 2017 in a deal worth €180 million, then the second-most expensive transfer in football history.

Although Liverpool impressed Mbappe's family with their approach, the financial power of PSG and the player's desire to remain in France ultimately proved decisive.

Under Fenway Sports Group's ownership, the Scousers were unwilling to disrupt the club's wage structure by matching the enormous salary and bonus package offered by the Parisian giants.

Mbappe went on to establish himself as one of the world's finest players in Paris before fulfilling a childhood dream by joining Real Madrid in 2024.