Despite being linked with a whole host of signings last summer, Liverpool remained quiet in the market.
The Reds could arguably have done with two or three new additions heading into the season but brought in only one: Federico Chiesa.
Had things turned out slightly differently, however, perhaps Liverpool could have been boasting the free signing capture of Kylian Mbappe from PSG.
Mbappe was relentlessly linked with Liverpool over the past two or three years but ultimately ended that saga by joining Real Madrid in the last transfer window.
Things have so far been a bit of a struggle for Mbappe in Madrid, though, with a missed penalty at Anfield a particular lowlight for the Frenchman.
But having scored in Real’s Intercontinental Cup final win on Wednesday, things may be starting to turn for Mbappe. And as he settles in with the European champions, the 25-year-old has looked back on his plan B had he not ended up in Madrid.
Kylian Mbappe reveals Real Madrid back-up plan
Despite the links to Liverpool, it had always felt likely that Mbappe would end up at Madrid.
Reports claimed that Mbappe held conversations with the Reds over a move, but in reality there seemed little chance of him arriving at Anfield.
And speaking to beIN SPORTS France via Get French Football News, the France captain has admitted that had he not joined Los Blancos, he would have simply stayed at Paris Saint Germain.
“I have always said that [PSG] was the biggest club in France and one of the best in the world,” says Mbappe. “I only left to go to the biggest club in the world.”
READ MORE: How close Liverpool really came to signing Kylian Mbappe before he joined Real Madrid
“I have always said that it was the only club that I would have left PSG for. If I couldn’t have gone to Real Madrid, I would have stayed at PSG my whole life.
“I spent seven years at PSG. It was an honour. I was always aware of where I was and of how big a club PSG was.”
Liverpool not looking to do business with Real Madrid
It will be fascinating to see how Mbappe’s career develops at Real Madrid. He is on a five-year contract and it seems probable that he will see out those years.
Beyond that, perhaps a move to England and the Premier League will appeal to a player who will still barely be in his 30’s.
In the meantime, Liverpool continue to be linked with a swoop for Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.
Surprise reports on Wednesday suggested that Liverpool may offer a swap deal with Ryan Gravenberch for Tchouameni. However, those claims have been played down.
The Reds don’t tend to do business with Real and based on these quotes from Mbappe, it doesn’t sound like there’ll be a time in the future when that will change relating to the Frenchman, or his national team colleague Tchouameni.
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