Kylian Mbappe has disclosed that he was remarkably "close" to joining Liverpool in 2016, a move his mother strongly endorsed. At the time, the young striker was playing for Monaco in Ligue 1, and Liverpool sought to secure his signature when he was just 18.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp revealed the club's extensive efforts to sign Mbappe, including arranging a private jet and gourmet meals for him and his family. Despite the allure of Anfield, Mbappe ultimately chose to stay in Paris, stating:

• "I didn't listen because I wanted to play in my city, Paris. I didn't want to leave my country before I was someone."
• His mother, a devoted fan of Klopp, was enthusiastic about the prospect of her son playing at Anfield, saying, "Liverpool - you're going to be there, playing at Anfield, it's going to be insane for you."

Mbappe recounted how his mother took the initiative, traveling to Liverpool to explore the club and its atmosphere. She was captivated by the community feel, describing it as a "wonderful club" and a "family club".

Klopp reflected on the failed negotiations, humorously noting how they circled around in the private jet without being seen, but ultimately, Mbappe opted for Paris Saint-Germain. He later joined PSG on a loan deal that included an option to buy for €180 million (£165.7 million). Over seven years in Paris, he became the club's all-time leading scorer before transferring to Real Madrid in 2024.