Jurgen Klopp won over Kylian Mbappe MUM in secret Anfield pitch

In September 2026, Jurgen Klopp revealed that Liverpool were on the brink of signing a teenage Kylian Mbappe in 2016, hoping the French prodigy could bolster the Reds’ attack as they searched for a long‑term solution. The ex‑Liverpool boss described top‑secret talks that aimed to bring the Monaco striker to Anfield, a move his mother was eager to support.

Secret meetings win over Mbappe's mother

Klopp disclosed that his recruitment mission involved private meetings with Mbappe’s mother, who was a fervent fan of the German manager. She travelled to Liverpool, toured the stadium and met club officials, declaring it a "wonderful, family club". Her enthusiasm was captured in her words: "Liverpool – you’re going to be there, playing at Anfield, it’s going to be insane for you."

During the same period, Klopp recounted flying from Blackpool to Nice on a private plane with five rooms, circling the sky to keep the negotiations hidden. He said, "We weren’t allowed to be seen, so we flew in a circle and talked to the family over a meal." The effort, he called "the most expensive non‑transfer that we (Liverpool) invested in," underscored the lengths the club went to secure the teenager.

Mbappe's PSG record and transfer fee

Mbappe later explained to The Athletic why he turned down Liverpool, stating, "I didn’t listen because I wanted to play in my city, Paris, and I didn’t want to leave my country before I was someone." He added that his mother’s visits to Anfield could not sway his desire to stay in France. Reported at between £165 million and €180 million, the fee for his eventual move to Paris Saint‑Germain (PSG) reflects the magnitude of the missed opportunity.

At PSG, the 27‑year‑old amassed 308 appearances, scoring 256 goals and providing 110 assists while winning six league titles. He became the club’s all‑time leading scorer and helped the side dominate French football before departing for Real Madrid in 2024.

Mbappe’s career continued to flourish after his Paris stint. He won the World Cup with France in 2018, reached the final in 2022 and scored a hat‑trick in the Qatar finale. His transfer to Real Madrid marked the culmination of a journey that began with secret talks at Anfield.

The story highlights the extraordinary lengths Liverpool, under Klopp, were willing to go to secure a future star, and how a single family decision shaped the trajectory of one of football’s brightest talents.