PSG line up big money replacement as Mbappe edges closer to Real Madrid transfer

9 May 2024 16:30 BST
3 min read

Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid, PSG, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Paris Saint-Germain are preparing for life with Kylian Mbappe and the French giants are reportedly eyeing Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia as a potential replacement for their Real Madrid-bound superstar.

Mbappe is set to play his final home game for PSG this weekend and is expected to announce his departure to Real Madrid soon after, having kept tight-lipped over his future so far.

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Although a deal has not been formally struck with Real, Mbappe had already told PSG in February that he would be leaving the club and has been in talks with the Spanish side for many months.

PSG’s disappointing Champions League semi-final exit to Dortmund all but confirmed that there would be no change of heart or fairytale ending to Mbappe’s time in Paris and the club appear to be making steps to transition into a new era.

Spanish outlet Fichajes cite reports in Italy and claim that PSG manager Luis Enrique is an ‘admirer’ of ‘Kvaradona’, considering the 23-year-old an ‘ideal’ reinforcement for next season.

Although Napoli have no desire to sell their talismanic winger, a fee of €120 million could be enough to secure his signing, however there is no guarantee that PSG would be willing to splash that type of cash on one player.

© IMAGO - Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is reportedly a top target for PSG

What are PSG’s plans for the summer?

PSG are looking to continue their youth-led rebuild upon Mbappe’s exit, having seen Lionel Messi and Neymar leave last summer to end their ‘Galactico’-style era.

A striker, such as Kvaratskhelia’s Napoli teammate Victor Osimhen is also being targeted and the Italian side would be reluctant to sell both key players in one summer.

READ MORE: Latest Kylian Mbappe transfer news

STATS

31

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10

Goals
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Assists

A central midfielder and a centre back are also on PSG’s shortlist, with Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva thought to be a target.

However, despite previously positioning themselves as one of the favourites for his signing, Bruno Guimaraes is not expected to be pursued due to Newcastle demanding his release clause in excess of €100m be paid in full.