Jurgen Klopp, renowned for his keen eye for talent, nearly pulled off a transfer coup during his tenure at Liverpool. Reports indicate that Klopp identified a future Real Madrid star through online scouting, specifically on YouTube.

The Near Miss: A £2.5 Million Opportunity

In 2017, Liverpool had the chance to sign Rodrygo, then a promising 16-year-old winger from Santos, for a mere £2.5 million. The Mirror reported that the Reds were in “advanced talks” with Santos after Klopp spotted Rodrygo’s potential in online footage. This potential has since skyrocketed, making him one of Europe’s most sought-after players.

Klopp’s Vision: YouTube Scouting Pays Off

Rodrygo’s agent, Elano, recounted the origins of Klopp’s interest in a 2020 interview with Canal do Nicola:

He had gone on YouTube, searched ‘talents from Brazil’, Rodrygo had appeared, and he was very young.
Elano, Rodrygo’s Agent

Elano further explained Klopp’s proactive approach: He [Jurgen Klopp] came to Brazil and liked him. They contacted me, the Liverpool director wanted him to be his first signing, Rodrygo.

The Twist: Why the Deal Collapsed

Despite the advanced talks, the £2.5 million deal fell through.Rodrygo ultimately signed with Real Madrid for £37 million a few years later, a deal ironically finalized in a hospitality suite at Anfield, according to the Mirror.

Rodrygo explained his decision to stay at Santos:

We didn’t close the deal because I didn’t want to. I wanted to stay at Santos even tho the offer was very good. The pathway they promised me would also have been very good for my career. I was going to finish my studies in England to prepare for European football. It had always been my dream to play in Europe. Everything was very good, but my desire spoke louder. I wanted to stay at santos and make a bit of history at the club. and that’s what happened: I was able to fulfil my dream of playing for Santos. But it’s true, I almost went to Liverpool.
Rodrygo,The Guardian

Rodrygo Today: A Premier League Target?

Now 24, Rodrygo is valued at approximately £80 million. The Osasco-born Brazilian international has been linked with a move to the Premier League, with reports suggesting Arsenal are in talks to secure his services.

Liverpool’s Trajectory Under Klopp

During the year Liverpool almost signed Rodrygo, Klopp guided the team to a fourth-place finish in the Premier League. His subsequent seasons at Anfield saw Liverpool clinch both the Champions League and the Premier League, solidifying his legacy at the club.