Real Madrid has been relentlessly pursuing Kylian Mbappe for five consecutive years, with the Frenchman expected to become a free agent after the 2023/24 season. Despite past attempts, such as when Mbappe chose a lucrative extension with PSG three seasons ago, making him the highest-paid player in European football, Madrid is still eager to sign him.
As the 2024 summer transfer window nears, Mbappe can now talk to interested clubs, including Real Madrid and several Premier League teams. According to Jose Manuel Moreno, it’s crucial for Mbappe to seal a deal with Real Madrid by January 31 if he hopes to wear their iconic white shirt. Missing this deadline might close the door on his chance to join the team.
Since Mbappe will be a free agent in the summer, he can sign a pre-contract with any team, potentially facilitating a move before the June transfer window. Meanwhile, Real Madrid is also looking at other targets, notably Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich, whose contract ends in 2025, offering a chance for a discounted transfer starting in 2024.
The club might also consider securing a center-back, especially if Nacho leaves. This becomes more critical due to Eder Militao and David Alaba’s ACL injuries, possibly requiring reinforcements in defense. The contract situations of midfielders Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, both becoming free agents at the season’s end, are also pivotal in the transfer strategy.
However, there’s a discrepancy between Mbappe’s preferred forward position and Real Madrid’s current needs, as he favors the left-wing, a spot already taken by Vinicius Jr. and contested by Rodrygo, who also aims for a similar role. Real Madrid faces a tricky task in balancing the pursuit of Mbappe’s talent, addressing other squad needs, and managing contract talks with key players as this transfer saga unfolds.