As the future of Kylian Mbappé with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) hangs in the balance, the French forward seems to be increasingly inclined towards a transfer to Real Madrid. Despite PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi's public ultimatum to either extend his contract or face a potential sale, Mbappé appears relaxed about the unfolding drama, sources have revealed.
PSG is now in a somewhat weakened negotiating position, as Madrid patiently waits for either Mbappé or the French club to initiate the first move towards a possible transfer. The club aims to bypass the 2022 transfer fiasco when the French captain chose to renew his contract with PSG at the eleventh hour, despite Madrid's conviction that his transfer was practically a done deal.
Faced with the prospect of Mbappé leaving for free next year, PSG is eager to cash in on the situation. But the Madrid-based club, having announced the completion of their summer spendings, remains steadfast on securing Mbappé's services for free next season. A change in this stance is only likely if Mbappé himself instigates a move.
Mbappé, the French World Cup winner, has hinted at honoring his contract, which expires in June 2024, and sees himself in Paris next year. His decision to refrain from activating the one-year extension clause in his contract has stirred speculation about his departure as a free agent at the end of next season.
Although a few clubs can afford to sign Mbappé, his aspiration to follow in the footsteps of his idol Cristiano Ronaldo and join Madrid appears to deter competition. The possibility of a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal as his favored choice, remains remote given the English club's limited budget.
As PSG grapples with the possible loss of a key player, the team awaits the start of the new season. The chances of PSG benching Mbappé for the season if they fail to secure a transfer fee are unlikely. Regardless of the stalemate between PSG and Mbappé, Madrid remains optimistic about luring the French superstar to the Bernabeu.
