Toni Kroos was the target of Liverpool's transfer attempt in 2014. Steven Gerrard, the club's skipper, was tasked with making contact with the German midfielder.
What happened?
Gerrard recalled trying to entice Kroos to join Liverpool in his 2015 autobiography, *My Story*. He texted Kroos, who was at Bayern Munich at the time, but the player eventually signed for Real Madrid.
Why it mattered for Toni Kroos
Kroos told The Athletic in 2020 that Liverpool's offer was not a straight chat-up line, but they did offer to tell him more about the club. He found it funny that Luis Suarez was about to leave for Barcelona anyway.
What came next?
Kroos went on to become one of the greatest midfielders in Madrid's modern history, winning four La Liga titles and lifting the Champions League five times. He appeared in the 2018 and 2022 finals against Liverpool, coming out on top on both occasions.
Gerrard also revealed attempts to recruit Willian, the Brazilian attacker, who ultimately joined Chelsea. Gerrard sent a text to Willian, but the player replied that he was not sure Liverpool could win him the Champions League.
Kroos retired from football following Euro 2024. His decision to join Real Madrid instead of Liverpool proved to be a successful one, with the player achieving great success in Spain.
On 2014, Kroos won the World Cup with Germany, and his performances caught the attention of Liverpool. However, he chose to join Real Madrid, and the rest is history.
The transfer attempt was a bold move by Liverpool, but it ultimately did not pay off. Kroos's decision to join Real Madrid was likely influenced by the club's reputation and success in European competitions.
In the end, Kroos's career was marked by numerous achievements, including four La Liga titles and five Champions League wins. His legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation is cemented, and his decision to join Real Madrid was a key factor in his success.