Liverpool's 2016 bid for Zielinski: Private jet and Fabregas comparison

In the summer of 2016, Liverpool FC pursued Polish midfielder Piotr Zielinski, who had gained attention after a successful loan at Empoli. Jurgen Klopp, in his first transfer window as Liverpool manager, identified Zielinski as a key player for his midfield strategy. The club even arranged for a private jet to bring him to Merseyside for discussions. Despite the excitement, the transfer ultimately fell through due to financial constraints, as Liverpool could not meet Udinese's asking price for the player. Zielinski later expressed surprise at the private jet experience and shared that Klopp compared him to renowned players Cesc Fabregas and Ilkay Gundogan. Although Zielinski was photographed with a Liverpool shirt, he clarified that this was not the reason for the failed transfer. Instead, he acknowledged that he did not yet consider himself a top player, which influenced the negotiations. Liverpool eventually signed Gini Wijnaldum from Newcastle for around £25 million, a move that proved beneficial for the club as he contributed significantly to their success over the following years. Zielinski, on the other hand, moved to Napoli in the same summer and enjoyed a successful eight-year stint, winning multiple titles and establishing himself as a key player. His former coach at Napoli, Maurizio Sarri, praised Zielinski's talent and potential, likening him to Kevin De Bruyne, indicating his high regard for the player's abilities.