Zielinski reveals Klopp"s efforts to sign him at Liverpool in 2016
- Jurgen Klopp made significant efforts to recruit Piotr Zielinski to Liverpool in 2016, including a private jet and a personal meeting.
- Despite a €18.5 million offer, the transfer did not happen as Udinese wanted a higher fee, leading Zielinski to join Napoli instead.
- Zielinski later commented on a controversial photo of him in a Liverpool jersey, stating it had little effect on the transfer outcome.
In 2016, Polish midfielder Piotr Zielinski was pursued by Jurgen Klopp to join Liverpool after impressing during a loan spell in Italy. Klopp's efforts included a private jet invitation and a personal meeting at his home, showcasing the club's interest in Zielinski as a key player for their future. Despite the enticing offer, which included an €18.5 million bid, the transfer did not materialize as Udinese sought a higher fee. Zielinski ultimately signed with Napoli instead, while Liverpool secured Georginio Wijnaldum from Newcastle. Zielinski later reflected on the experience, noting a photograph of him in a Liverpool jersey stirred controversy, but he felt it had little impact on the situation. Now at Inter Milan, Zielinski has made a handful of league appearances since his transfer from Napoli, indicating a shift in his career trajectory after the missed opportunity with Liverpool.