According to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester United target Kylian Mbappe has officially stated that he has no intention of leaving Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) during this summer transfer window, despite his decision not to extend his current contract beyond the summer of 2024.
This announcement directly contradicts the plans of United suitor Shiekh Jassim, who aspires to a high-profile transfer of Mbappe if he acquires ownership of the Red Devils.
The France national team captain’s statement effectively shuts down any prospects of a blockbuster move to United under the Qatari’s ownership.
Sheikh Jassim’s rumoured dream target, Mbappe, could potentially join Real Madrid even if the Sheikh successfully acquires Man United from the Glazer family.
The star attacker has hinted at his intention to stay at PSG for the remaining half of his two-year contract.
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Despite PSG’s interest in selling him to avoid losing him on a free transfer, the 24-year-old’s statement suggests he may have all but confirmed his plan to eventually join Real Madrid.
“I have already said that I will stay. I have already said that long before all this happened. I only resolve to play at PSG next year. That’s what I said. There are a lot of things that happen in a year, even more so at a club like PSG.”
Although Mbappe has the option to extend his PSG contract by another year, he has confirmed his desire to leave Parc des Princes.
A move to Real Madrid this summer appears unlikely, as the Spanish club recently completed a massive deal for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham.
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However, it seems increasingly probable that Mbappe will be available on a free transfer at the end of the next season, which would be a monumental coup in the history of football.
Sheikh Jassim, even if he surpasses Sir Jim Ratcliffe in a sensational takeover of Man United, is unlikely to have much influence this summer.
The approval process for the new owner is expected to take between eight to twelve weeks, leaving current manager Erik Ten Hag with the budget provided by the Glazer family, estimated to be around £120 million.
Nevertheless, the Qataris are eager to make a significant impact as soon as possible, and there may be ambitious plans to entice Mbappe to United next year.