Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp failed in an attempt to sign Real Madrid Champions League hero Rodrygo when he was only 16, the player's agent has claimed.
The Brazilian struck a quickfire double with 90 minutes on the clock during Madrid's Champions League semi-final comeback against Manchester City. The goals forced the game into extra-time following Riyad Mahrez’s opener with Karim Benzema converting a penalty to book Los Blancos a place in the final, where they will face Liverpool.
It appears Madrid's Champions League hero might have been lining up on the opposite team had Klopp's meeting with the forward proved more successful. It comes as Real sent the Reds a message ahead of the final in Paris after the players wore shirts with a special note on.
Meanwhile a group of Liverpool shareholders are in talks to buy Serie A giants AC Milan in a deal that could be worth more than €1bn (£950m).
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Klopp's failed Rodrygo bid
Klopp previously flew to Brazil in an attempt to sign Real's Rodrygo when the forward was just 16 years old.
According to the player's agent, Nick Arcuri, Klopp even went to Sao Paulo to watch Rodrygo in action, but the Reds couldn't agree terms on a move for the player. Arcuri said Liverpool made a proposal to Modesto Roma Junior, the then president of Santos, but it was rejected and he signed his first professional contract at the Brazilian club.
It appears they went back in for the player a short time later, with former manager Elano Blumer claiming the Reds made an offer which was "around €30million (£25m)" less than Real Madrid's meaning he ended up joining the Spanish giants for €54million (£46m).
Owners plot AC Milan purchase
One of the minority owners of Liverpool are weighing up a bid to purchase AC Milan.
RedBird Capital purchased 10% of Fenway Sports Group last year in a deal worth around £533m. The group could be set to flex its financial muscles once again in a deal that could be worth more than €1bn (£950m) for Milan.
Talks have been held with Milan's current American owners, Elliot Management, who are looking to sell up. It comes after a period of exclusive negotiations with Investcorp lapsed. RedBird also have a stake in Indian Premier League cricket outfit Rajasthan Royals and own French side Toulouse as they look to add the San Siro outfit to their stable of clubs.
Madrid send Champions League message
Real Madrid players sent a clear message to Liverpool after booking their place in the final in Paris on May 28.
After the final whistle blew on their breathtaking semi-final comeback against City, players donned special shirts. The clothing had the message: "All out for number 14" emblazoned across it.
The message is a clear indication to Klopp and his Liverpool players that Real will be going all out to ensure victory in Paris – and lift the European Cup for the 14th time.
