Real Madrid make KEY Vinicius decision amid Mbappe transfer rumours

Cameron Smith

• 23 Jul 2023 15:22 BST
• 3 min read

Real Madrid have decided that pursuing Kylian Mbappe will not affect Vinicius Jr’s position on the left of their attack.

Mbappe has been heavily linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer after being placed on the transfer list at Paris Saint-Germain.

The French international was omitted from PSG’s squad for their pre-season tour of Japan and is currently training with the rest of the club’s unwanted stars.

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The 24-year-old has one year left on his contract at the Parc des Princes, but has been told by PSG president Nasser Al Khelaifi that he will be sold this summer after revealing that he will not put pen to paper on an extended deal.

Real Madrid have been long-time admirers of Mbappe and tried to sign him last summer, but Mbappe opted to stay at PSG rather than join Los Blancos. Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal are also interested, while Arsenal are keen too.

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Mbappe pursuit will not harm Vinicius

While Real Madrid are interested in signing Mbappe, their pursuit of the France star will not affect Vinicius Jr. The Brazilian has been a key part of Madrid’s side over the past few years and has registered 30 or more goals and assists in each of the past two seasons.

Despite their push to sign Mbappe, Real Madrid will not disregard Vinicius. According to AS, Mbappe will be deployed in a central striker position if Real purchase him and he will not displace Vinicius on the left wing.

Real Madrid view Vinicius as the most important player in their squad and will not risk moving him out of his favoured position to sign Mbappe.

Furthermore, AS have reported that Vinicius is keen to take on even more responsibility at the Santiago Bernabeu and would like to become the club’s new penalty taker. Karim Benzema held that role last campaign, but he has left the club to join Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ittihad.