According to a recent report from Mundo Deportivo, it has come to light that Liverpool came remarkably close to signing Real Madrid star Rodrygo in the summer of 2017 for €3 million.
However, the move ultimately fell through, and the forward later secured a high-profile transfer to Real Madrid.
It is said that at the time, Liverpool’s then-manager Jurgen Klopp had identified Rodrygo as a promising young talent, but circumstances prevented the deal from materialising.
What’s the story?
According to reports, Klopp personally took an interest in the young Brazilian after coming across videos of him online. Recognising Rodrygo’s potential, Klopp travelled to Brazil to meet with him and explore the possibility of bringing him to Anfield.
Liverpool were reportedly in advanced talks to finalise the deal, which would have made Rodrygo one of Klopp’s earliest signings. Despite Klopp’s keen interest, the negotiations hit a stumbling block over the transfer fee.
In fact, as revealed by the brazilian’s agent, “He’d [Klopp] gone on YouTube, searched for ‘Brazilian talent’ and Rodrygo had come up, he was very young.
“He came and liked him. I was contacted, the Liverpool manager wanted him to be their first signing, Rodrygo.”
Why did Santos reject the offer?
Santos, Rodrygo’s club at the time, believed the offer was too low and were hesitant to part ways with the teenager. Former Santos coach Elano played a key role in persuading Rodrygo to stay, promising him opportunities to play for the first team.
This decision proved to be crucial for Rodrygo’s development, as he quickly established himself as a rising star in Brazilian football.
Just a year later, Rodrygo’s performances caught the attention of European giants Real Madrid, who were willing to pay a significantly higher fee to secure his services.
In 2018, the Spanish club signed Rodrygo for a staggering €44.3 million, marking a major step in his career.
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