Kylian Mbappé has reportedly decided against extending his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) beyond June 2024, despite the recent warning from president Nasser Al-Khelaifi. Sources have revealed to ESPN that the talented forward is now contemplating a potential departure from the club this summer, with Real Madrid emerging as his preferred destination.
Notably, Al-Khelaifi’s comments have failed to leave an impression on Mbappé or intimidate him. Sources have confirmed that the French international, currently enjoying a brief holiday in Cameroon, remains relaxed about the situation.
Madrid’s Hopes and Strategy
On the other hand, Real Madrid retains hope of securing Mbappé’s services and is eager to finalize a deal valued at over €200 million ($217.87m). However, they are keen for either Mbappé or PSG to initiate discussions before the negotiations can officially commence.
The Spanish giants aim to avoid a repeat of last summer’s drama when Mbappé opted to sign a new contract with PSG at the eleventh hour, despite Madrid’s confidence in securing his transfer. To achieve this, Madrid President Florentino Pérez and the team are adopting a low-profile approach, patiently awaiting either Mbappé or PSG to take the first step towards a potential transfer before submitting a definitive offer for his signature.
Sources close to the situation affirm that Madrid is the sole club that Mbappé desires to join this summer, and they are also the only team capable of affording his hefty price tag. ESPN has reported that Madrid has already made the necessary preparations, awaiting the green light from either Mbappé or PSG. Recognizing the substantial financial commitment involved, Madrid acknowledges that the deal will surpass €200 million, encompassing transfer fees, add-ons, and commissions.
Although there has been no direct communication between the two clubs, Madrid has been engaged in discussions with Mbappé’s representatives for some time. These ongoing conversations have laid the groundwork for a potential transfer.
PSG’s Ultimatum and its Consequences
Despite Mbappé publicly expressing his desire to remain at PSG for another season just last month, Al-Khelaifi issued an ultimatum to the player during a recent press conference. He stated that Mbappé must make a decision within the next week or two at the latest, emphasizing that if the forward does not sign a new contract, PSG will be forced to sell him. Al-Khelaifi made it clear that this stance is non-negotiable.
ESPN sources have explained that PSG’s public handling of Mbappé’s contract situation has weakened their position in negotiations. While Mbappé has never explicitly assured PSG of his loyalty beyond his current contract, he does prefer leaving the club while they receive a transfer fee, enabling them to allocate the funds towards securing a replacement.
As of now, negotiations between PSG and Mbappé have failed to make any significant progress. PSG has offered Mbappé a loyalty bonus of €70 million if he stays for another season; however, Madrid remains confident that this incentive will not hinder their chances of signing the talented forward.
Kylian Mbappé’s refusal to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain has ignited speculation about his future. With Real Madrid standing as his preferred choice, the stage is set for a potential transfer that could reshape the landscape of European football. As the standoff between Mbappé and PSG continues, the football world eagerly awaits the next move in this high-stakes saga.
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