PSG want Real Madrid star in return for Mbappe

Cameron Smith

Updated: 3 Apr 2024 17:59 BST
3 min read

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly interested in signing Real Madrid star Rodrygo as Kylian Mbappe’s replacement this summer.

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Mbappe, 25, has rejected the chance to sign a new contract at the Parc des Princes and he is expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer when his current deal expires at the end of June.

With the France international on his way out, PSG have begun drafting up a list of possible successors. Rafael Leao, Marcus Rashford and Victor Osimhen have all been touted as potential replacements for Mbappe, while Rodrygo has emerged as another candidate.

That is according to Spanish outlet Cadena Ser (via Get French Football News), who have reported that PSG are extremely interested in snatching Rodrygo from Real Madrid.

The Brazil international has recently been linked with a Santiago Bernabeu exit amid Mbappe’s impending arrival. The Frenchman is expected to take Rodrygo’s place in the Real Madrid starting XI, while talented teenager Endrick will also join Los Blancos’ squad ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.

As a result, several Premier League clubs are reportedly monitoring Rodrygo’s situation in Spain, including Arsenal, and PSG are now also keen on adding the Brazilian to their squad.

Rodrygo has 13 goals and seven assists in La Liga and the Champions League so far this season, including a brace during Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Athletic Club on Sunday evening.

The 23-year-old joined Real Madrid for €45 million in 2021 and Los Blancos would likely only consider a sale if they are able to turn a significant profit on the Brazilian.

What has Rodrygo said?

Rodrygo is seemingly the most likely current Real Madrid player to lose his spot in the starting XI if Mbappe arrives, but he still wants to see the PSG star join the club this summer.

After a 4-0 win over Girona in February, Rodrygo told reporters: “I would love Mbappe to come. I always want to play with the best players and he's one of the best in the world. I can't talk much about him. He's a PSG player and I have to respect him.”