09 November 2023 , 06:55
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Real Madrid have abandoned their interest in Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe with Carlo Ancelotti refusing to even talk about the striker.
The Spanish giants have long been linked with a move for the 2018 World Cup winner, with it expected they would once again attempt to sign him this summer. Mbappe sees his current PSG contract expire this summer, leaving him free to leave the French capital for nothing.
It was widely anticipated that Real would be taking advantage of that fact. It would not be the first time that they would attempt to sign him on a free transfer.
They also attempted the same last summer, only to see Mbappe sign a new deal - leaving Real president Florentino Perez furious. Now, it appears that they are set to end their interest in him completely.
According to Spanish outlet Cadena SAR, Los Blancos believe the striker’s wage demands would be too high. It is reported that he has ambitions of earning around £330k per week at the Bernabeu, while Jude Bellingham banks around just £150k.
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It is also suggested that Real believe Mbappe could be too old given that he will turn 25 next month, while the club target moves for younger stars. The club are also acutely aware of a potential backlash from supporters given Mbappe’s previous U-turn over a switch.
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Asked about Mbappe after his side’s Champions League win against Braga in midweek, Ancelotti was coy on rumours. The Italian said: "No comment. I won't answer this about Mbappe."
Real were far more transparent regarding their interest - or lack thereof - last week. The Spanish giants were forced to intervene after reports claimed they were in talks with Mbappe regarding a move.
A statement from the Spanish club rejected such claims. It read: "Given the information recently issued and published by different media outlets, in which there is speculation about alleged negotiations between the player Kylian Mbappe and our club, Real Madrid CF would like to state that this information is completely false and that no such negotiations have taken place with a player who belongs to PSG."
Real’s failure to commit to a deal has seemingly left clubs in the Premier League in prime position to swoop. Liverpool are apparently optimistic of their chances of signing Mbappe, while Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle are all lurking.
Mbappe is currently in the midst of another productive season at the Parc des Princes. The 72-time France international has scored 12 goals in 14 appearances in all competitions.
He has also scored in each of his last two international appearances for the two-time world champions. Mbappe will be aiming to extend his positive recent form as PSG take on Reims this weekend.