In a surprising twist to the ongoing Kylian Mbappe transfer saga, Saudi Arabian clubs are reportedly preparing to outbid Real Madrid for the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) striker. The Frenchman, who has been widely expected to move to the Spanish giants, could now be the subject of a record-breaking offer from the oil-rich Middle Eastern nation.
Mbappe, who has a year left on his contract with PSG, has declined to renew it until 2025. This decision has led to speculation that he could leave on a free transfer next summer, a scenario that PSG is keen to avoid. Consequently, the Parisians have reportedly decided to put Mbappe up for sale.
While Real Madrid has been the anticipated destination for Mbappe, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has suggested that the Spanish club should brace for a bidding war with Saudi Arabian clubs. "The reality is that from Saudi they want to try with a record bid, but all parties involved know very well that Real Madrid are the favourite destination of Kylian," Romano told CaughtOffside.
However, Romano also noted that there is currently "nothing concrete" regarding a formal offer from Saudi Arabia. But if such an offer were to materialize, it could be "astronomical" and potentially sway the 24-year-old Frenchman away from his dream of donning the famous white shirt of Real Madrid.
Adding fuel to the transfer speculation, PSG has excluded Mbappe from their pre-season tour of Asia. The striker was expected to be the main attraction in Japan, especially in the absence of Lionel Messi, who has moved to Inter Miami. However, Mbappe's omission from the squad has sparked further questions about his future at PSG.
Despite his refusal to extend his contract, Mbappe has expressed his willingness to honour the remainder of his current contract with PSG. However, the prospect of him leaving on a free transfer next summer is a concern for the French champions.
Meanwhile, rumours are circulating within Real Madrid about potential presentation plans for Mbappe. Journalist Manu Sainz told Diario AS that internal conversations suggest the event could take place between August 1-3. However, these are merely rumours at this stage, and until an official announcement is made, the situation remains fluid.
Last year, Saudi Arabia successfully lured Karim Benzema away from Real Madrid. Given this precedent, it's not beyond the realm of possibility that they could present Mbappe with an offer too tempting to refuse.
