Real Madrid remain wary of the possibility of signing Kylian Mbappé, as sources have told ESPN, but the club are also hoping a deal can finally be done for the Paris Saint-Germain forward this summer.
There has been a reluctance to openly negotiate Mbappé’s arrival at the Bernabeu after the sudden switch last summer saw the France international agree a new contract with PSG when he was close to moving to Madrid.
Madrid’s transfer market activity has finished following the signings of Jude Bellingham, Joselu, Fran García and Brahim Díaz.
However, the reality is that the club vacated Karim Benzema’s number 9 prior to his departure for Al Ittihad as there was also hope that Mbappé could become available.
As sources have told ESPN there has been no notable progress since Mbappé announced on June 12 that he had informed PSG that he would not exercise the option to extend his contract beyond 2024.
Publicly, Mbappé continues to insist that he wants to stay at PSG for one more season, but several sources have told ESPN that the player wants to join Madrid this summer, that PSG want to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year.
Madrid are also willing to put in a significant effort to see Mbappé lead their attack alongside Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid are wary and hope their long-term pursuit can pay off this summer, knowing that PSG are looking to lighten their expenses in line with financial fair play restrictions.
A source has told ESPN that a protracted summer transfer saga is not expected this time around.
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti wants to see his front line strengthened by finding substitute Karim Benzema, and that need is taking even more priority now that the Ballon d’Or winner has left for Saudi Arabia.
The Italy coach views Spain international Joselu as an alternative to a starter, and the fact that he was given number 14 instead of Benzema’s 9, shows that the club has not closed the door on another signing.
Real Madrid failed to defend their LaLiga and Champions League titles last season despite winning the Copa del Rey, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup.
