In an audacious move, Arsenal is reportedly planning to make a bold approach for Paris Saint-Germain’s talented attacker, Kylian Mbappe, in the upcoming summer of 2024. The 24-year-old’s future has become a hot topic once again after he decided not to activate the 12-month extension clause in his contract with the French champions.
This means that Mbappe could potentially become a free agent in 2024. The French international has made it clear that he intends to stay with PSG for this summer, deferring his decision on his future until next year.
However, PSG is understandably anxious about the prospect of losing Mbappe for nothing in a year’s time, so they are actively working to sell him during the current transfer window.
Unfortunately for Mbappe, his options for a transfer are currently limited, with only Real Madrid believed to have the financial capability to lure him away from the Parc des Princes for the 2023-24 season. Real Madrid has been monitoring Mbappe since their failed £137 million bid in the summer of 2021. They were also rejected by the former Monaco starlet when he extended his contract with PSG last year.
With Karim Benzema’s surprise move to Al-Ittihad, Real Madrid is now in search of a long-term successor for the striker position. They have acquired Joselu on loan from Espanyol, but the 33-year-old is not seen as a permanent solution. Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Perez, has stated that the club will not make any further signings this summer, having already spent a significant amount on the acquisition of Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund.
Given the possibility of a free transfer in 2024, Real Madrid could make a move for Mbappe. However, according to reports from Football Transfers, Arsenal might unexpectedly enter the race to sign the talented attacker.
The management at Arsenal is said to hold a great admiration for the World Cup-winning player, and they are contemplating whether to approach Mbappe’s representatives with a proposal. While there would be no transfer fee involved for Mbappe to join Arsenal next year, the club would likely need to offer a record-breaking wage package to secure the services of the striker. It is believed that Mbappe currently earns €1.5 million (£1.3 million) per week at PSG.
Arsenal currently possesses a strong attacking lineup with players such as Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Eddie Nketiah, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Folarin Balogun, all capable of playing in the central forward position. However, there is a possibility that Balogun could depart before the transfer window closes.
Moreover, with the recent arrival of Havertz, it is anticipated that he will assume a midfield role for Arsenal. The Gunners are also rumored to be on the verge of securing a British-record £105 million deal for West Ham United’s Declan Rice. Furthermore, talks for a £40 million move to acquire Ajax defender Jurrien Timber are progressing positively.
Kylian Mbappe had an exceptional individual campaign during the 2022-23 season, becoming PSG’s all-time leading goalscorer by surpassing Edinson Cavani’s record. He has an impressive tally of 212 goals and 98 assists in 260 games for PSG. Last season alone, Mbappe netted 41 goals and provided 10 assists in 43 appearances across various competitions.
As the future of Kylian Mbappe hangs in the balance, the footballing world eagerly awaits to see whether Arsenal will make a bold move to secure his services or if Real Madrid will be successful in their pursuit of the talented Frenchman.