Mbappe’s best friend is Real Madrid’s next transfer target

Robin Bairner

• 19 Feb 2024 02:16 CST
• 3 min read

Kylian Mbappe finally seems set for a transfer to Real Madrid in the summer, and he could be joined at the Bernabeu by one his best friends.

Reports in Spain indicate that Mbappe has already signed a five-year deal with Los Blancos, while Fabrizio Romano says that the deal that the World Cup winner has penned is worth substantially less on a weekly basis than his current PSG deal.

Softening that blow for the attacker, though, is the prospect of being joined at the club by PSG teammate Achraf Hakimi, a player whom he has formed a close bond with since the Morocco international arrived in Paris from Inter Milan for €68 million in 2021.

Hakimi, of course, is a graduate of the Real Madrid academy but failed to make the grade at the Bernabeu as a youngster and departed as a 21-year-old after making just 17 appearances across all competitions for the first team.

SportsZone indicated on Sunday that the right-back is pushing to follow Mbappe to Spain.

“Achraf Hakimi wishes to leave PSG,” the report indicates. “Real Madrid and Manchester City are attentive.

“For the moment, Real Madrid are planning to recruit in the right-back position in the summer of 2025.

“PSG still hope to extend his contract and do not wish to sell.”

Madrid looking to rush through Hakimi deal?

Reports from TodoFichajes in Spain, meanwhile, suggests a deal is possible more quickly.

“PSG are open to a transfer and we are not talking about a truly untouchable player for the French club, who are looking to rejuvenate their squad and reduce salaries,” it reports.

“Mbappe endorses his arrival. The truth is that Real Madrid are thinking about saying goodbye to Lucas Vazquez and Dani Carvajal, despite his excellent performances in the twilight of his career, and Hakimi’s signing is on the roadmap of Real Madrid’s sports management.”

Hakimi’s asking price is expected to be around the €60m mark, but Los Blancos could throw in Rodrygo to reduce that figure and help ease negotiations.