Mbappe’s Transfer Decision Leaves PSG Hanging, As Neymar’s Feud Resurfaces

• Mbappe turned down a move to Real Madrid last summer
• The striker penned a new three-year contract in Paris last May
• Kylian Mbappe will not take up his option to extend his contract at Paris Saint-Germain

Kylian Mbappe will not take up the option of a one-year addition to his Paris Saint-Germain contract – ensuring that he will be a free agent from next summer.

The striker penned a new three-year contract in Paris last May – although the final year of that deal is an optional renewal on the player’s behalf.

He has long been linked with an exit from the Parc des Princes, with Real Madrid heavily referenced, despite penning that deal.

Mbappe previously refused to commit his future to PSG following suggestions of an exit.

“For now, a second World Cup,” the France international said in November when quizzed over his alleged transfer request. “After that, I don’t know.” It was not until March that he returned to the issue.

Neymar and Mbappe feud

There has also been the French striker’s ongoing reported feud with attacking teammate Neymar.

The superstar duo fell out over the order of penalty-takers earlier this season in a Ligue 1 clash with the Brazilian liking a series of posts which appeared to criticise and undermine Mbappe.

The French star is now said by L’Equipe to have no desire of taking up his contract option through 2025, meaning he will be out of contract next summer.

It adds that tensions between him and the club have calmed down, but Mbappe is keen on playing his football elsewhere.

As outlined by L’Equipe earlier this month, Neymar’s Instagram account ‘liked’ a post which slammed Mbappe.

His Twitter account meanwhile is said to have ‘liked’ a post suggesting he and Lionel Messi were happier when they played for Barcelona.

Last month, the striker criticised PSG’s season ticket renewal campaign which focused heavily on his input. It was the latest sign that there was an uncomfortable relationship between the two, with cracks starting to appear.

Taking to Instagram with a statement, Mbappe wrote:

“I have just taken part in the viewing of the club’s renewal campaign for the 23/24 season.

“At no time was I informed of the content of the interview with my interlocutor. It looked like a basic interview at a club marketing day. I disagree with this posted video.

That’s why I fight for individual image rights. PSG is a big club and a big family, but it is certainly not Kylian Saint-Germain.”

Despite the controversy surrounding him this season, Mbappe has still managed to shine on the pitch. The 24-year-old has 40 goals to his name in all competitions and managed to break the club’s goalscoring record – overtaking former Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani in the process.

Manchester City targets PSG midfielder

Earlier Sports Brief reported that Manchester City are monitoring a PSG midfielder with an intention for a summer swoop.

Marco Veratti who has spent the best part of his career at the French capital appears a likely replacement for Ilkay Gundogan.

It remains to be seen if this transfer will materialise or if the Italian will commit to a new contract at PSG.