PSG president issues defiant Mbappe message amid Real Madrid links

Cameron Smith

• 9 Jan 2024 12:11 CST
• 3 min read

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has spoken out following recent rumours that Kylian Mbappe will join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer.

Mbappe, 25, has refused to sign a new contract at the Parc des Princes and he is due to become a free agent in July as a result.

A move to Real Madrid has been touted as Mbappe’s most likely next step, with some reports even suggesting that a deal has been agreed for the Frenchman to move to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.

However, Mbappe’s entourage have shut down those rumours. “There is no agreement around Kylian's future, especially since there are no discussions started about it,” they admitted, as per RMC.

“No type of influence could dictate the timing of Kylian's discussion, reflection or decision.”

Now, PSG president Al-Khelaifi has broken his silence regarding Mbappe. He has admitted to RMC Sport: “Of course I want Kylian to stay, for sure. He is the best player in the world and the best club for Kylian is Paris. He is at the centre of everything.”

This season, Mbappe has 25 goals and three assists in just 24 games across all competitions, including a hat-trick against sixth-tier side US Revel in the Coupe de France on Sunday.

Kylian Mbappe to join Real Madrid?

Although Real Madrid are deemed to be Mbappe’s most likely next destination, the Frenchman has reportedly been left annoyed by Los Blancos’ transfer tactics.

According to The Times’ Duncan Castles: “Mbappe is unimpressed by Real Madrid’s attempt to push him into signing a pre-contract agreement this month.

“The France superstar wants to further explore a range of sporting and financial options - including a free agency switch to the Premier League - before deciding where he will play next season.”

Real Madrid want Mbappe to commit to joining the club by mid-January in order to ensure they are not left empty-handed like they were in 2022. However, The Times have reported that Mbappe is not happy with Los Blancos’ approach and is not prepared to let them dictate terms.