While Arsenal’s supporters fret about the club’s future in their pursuit of the Premier League crown, rumors of potential transfers abound.



Competition for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/kylian-mbappe/euro-or-olympics-madrid-set-to-dash-mbappes-summer-plans/">Kylian Mbappe</a>‘s signing has intensified since he announced last summer that he won’t stay at Parc des Princes. The Gunners have been a contender, keeping pace with the greatest clubs in Europe right now.



Since he has declined to sign a new contract, the 25-year-old is practically ready to leave Parc des Princes. Supposedly, he has already spoken with Real Madrid and agreed to a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-demands-brother-to-join-him-at-madrid-whats-next-20240228-WST-492011.html">$16.5 million annual salary in Spain</a>.



Regardless, some non-Spanish media bring up other clubs as potential destinations, such as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/liverpool-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a> and Arsenal. Even while they may not be as big as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a>, the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> heavyweights still have a chance to entice the Frenchman with English soccer.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/arsenal-tv-schedule/">Arsenal</a> legend Thierry Henry is a renowned French great, and Mbappe is reportedly interested in mimicking his career. 



There is a lot of comparison between the two because of how they both started off at Monaco and their similar playing styles.



What’s more, manager Mikel Arteta hinted at a potential transfer to the Emirates last month. 



Thus, the 2018 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/womens-world-cup-tv-schedule/">World Cup</a> champion has since been linked with a shock switch to North London. “If we want to be the best team, then you need to have the best players, that’s for sure. The club that we are, I don’t think that’s ever been an issue. Everyone wants to play for Arsenal”, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-liverpool-out-of-race-another-rival-opens-door-20240217-WST-490214.html">the Spanish coach said</a>.



<h2>What did Kylian Mbappe say about possible Arsenal move?</h2>



<a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/kylian-mbappe-psg-real-madrid-champions-league-b2491654.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Independent</a> even hinted in February that Mbappe might be eager to join. That is if the Premier League team can meet his wage demands in any way. However, the player put a stop to that fantasy this week.



When a fan pleaded with the 25-year-old to think about joining Arsenal in a video that went viral on social media, his reaction left no space for debate. 



With a chuck, Mbappe laughed off the prospect of moving to the Gunners and joked about how bad the weather would be.



An aspiring Gunners fan named Mikey Poulli recently had a meeting with Mbappe in Paris and posted a <a href="https://twitter.com/mikeypoulli/status/1768929944451657798" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">brief video of their chat online</a>. Mikey first tells Mbappe, “Come to Arsenal,” near the beginning of the video. “We’ll look after you.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNFC/status/1768970987213656492" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="589" height="702" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240317_WST_495492_image-14_721a7331.webp&amp;width=589&amp;height=702" alt="" class="wp-image-495510" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/image-14.png 589w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/image-14-252x300.png 252w" sizes="(max-width: 589px) 100vw, 589px"></figure></a><figcaption>Mbappe was asked directly by a fan about moving to Arsenal</figcaption></figure>



After that, the player says, “Arsenal?”, while still giggling. “There’s no way. There’s no way.” According to the superstar, the British weather is to blame for the impossibility of a transfer to the Emirates Stadium. He explained to the supporter: “It’s too cold there.”



<h2>Not first time rejecting London move</h2>



Mbappe’s rejection of a move to north London is hardly unprecedented. At one point, he <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVoxlZ7U9_I&amp;pp=ygUSbWJhcHBlIHRvbSBob2xsYW5k&amp;themeRefresh=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">crushed the heart of Tom Holland</a>, a Tottenham supporter and Spider-Man actor. While meeting at the Ballon d’Or awards event in December 2021, the Marvel actor playfully invited the PSG star to go to Spurs.



While insisting it was “impossible,” he once again burst into laughing, exactly as he did with the Arsenal fan.



Photo credit: IMAGO / PA Images.

Mbappe has fantastic response to fan asking him to join Arsenal

While Arsenal's supporters fret about the club's future in their pursuit of the Premier League crown, rumors of potential transfers abound.

Mbappe has fantastic response to fan asking him to join Arsenal - World Soccer Talk

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has claimed that Marcus Rashford remains “part of the project” at the club as PSG continues to lurk. As a result, the coach insists on keeping the English forward beyond the upcoming summer transfer window. Rashford has been heavily linked with a move abroad in recent months.



These rumors began to swirl earlier in the current campaign even though the forward only just signed a new bumper contract last summer. The five-year extension saw Rashford’s weekly wages exceed $380,000. This is <a href="https://www.capology.com/club/manchester-united/salaries/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reportedly</a> the third-highest salary among all <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">United</a> players. Only Casemiro and Raphael Varane currently make more in the team.



Despite the rumors, Ten Hag told reporters on Friday that the Englishman remains in his plans. “He should be part of this project,” <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/68579172" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proclaimed</a> Ten Hag. “It is not a subject we talk about. We did not sign him last season for five years with the intention to sell him now.”



<h2>Rashford has struggled on and off of the pitch this season</h2>



United brass offered Rashford a massive new contract last summer following his standout 2022/23 campaign. The versatile forward netted 30 goals in all competitions last season, the most he has ever scored in a single campaign. 17 of these scores occurred during <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> play as United finished third in the English top-flight table.



Nevertheless, Rashford has struggled throughout the 2023/24 season. The winger/striker only netted two league goals up until Christmas. It was during this time that the star was mostly used as a substitute by Ten Hag. Rashford entered the fray in the second half of four consecutive league matches in December. The club only managed one victory during this particular stretch.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240315_WST_495224_Rashford-PSG-1200x670_9b750e58.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-495251" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Rashford-PSG-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Rashford-PSG-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Rashford-PSG-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Rashford-PSG.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Off of the pitch, Rashford has also endured tough times as well. Ten Hag disciplined the player in January after he was seen out without permission while in Northern Ireland. The forward then claimed to be sick and missed a training session immediately after the trip.



While he has struggled, Rashford has been linked with a move to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">Paris Saint-Germain</a> for weeks now. The French side is set to lose Kylian Mbappe to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> and will likely need to find a replacement. Recent <a href="https://www.eurosport.com/football/transfers/2023-2024/paris-saint-germain-plot-75-million-move-for-manchester-united-forward-marcus-rashford-paper-round_sto10060696/story.shtml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> have even suggested that PSG would offer United around $95 million for the forward.



<h2>PSG must turn to other targets if Rashford stays at United</h2>



Ten Hag could very well just be playing hardball in the possible deal with the French team. Nevertheless, United would seemingly have to be blown away by an offer if they would even think about selling one of their key players. While Rashford has struggled this season, his form has picked up as of late. The forward has scored five goals in his last nine Premier League matches.



On the other side, PSG could likely target a more qualified player to replace such a superstar as Mbappe. Although Rashford has been better lately, the Parisians perhaps should opt to sign a different star. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/napoli-tv-schedule-for-viewers-in-united-states/">Napoli</a> striker Victor Osimhen and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/liverpool-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a> winger Luis Diaz have both been mentioned recently as possible Mbappe replacements.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

United boss pours cold water on Rashford move to PSG

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has claimed that Marcus Rashford will not be sold to PSG during the upcoming summer transfer period.

As his contract with PSG expires this summer, Real Madrid are heavy favorites to sign Kylian Mbappe. When revealed, the deal has the potential to shock the sports world, but it has been looming on the horizon for a long time.



Throughout his 291 games played in the French capital, he tallied 244 goals and 105 assists. Despite his consistent success in Ligue 1, the Parisian sensation will be looking for greener pastures in the summer.



His signing would be perfect for Los Blancos, who are <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-effect-psg-star-could-follow-teammate-to-real-madrid-20240223-WST-491361.html">clearly in the driver’s seat</a>; in fact, the transfer seems more than certain now. Despite being considered the ideal successor to Karim Benzema, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/france-to-add-mbappe-and-two-euro-2024-stars-for-olympics/">Mbappe</a> decided to remain at Parc des Princes in 2022.



With the official announcement yet to come, there is one tiny detail that is still missing: Which Real Madrid jersey number will Kylian Mbappe wear?



<h2>Current numbers excluded</h2>



At Paris Saint-Germain, Kylian Mbappe wears kit No. 7, the number that Vinicius currently occupies at Real Madrid. The Frenchman’s admiration for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/the-year-in-review-the-top-soccer-stories-in-2023-20231219-WST-475178.html">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> is well-known.



Before relocating to Saudi Arabia, the legendary Portuguese player immortalized the number seven shirt while playing for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a>, Real Madrid, and Juventus. The 39-year-old also wears the No. 7 jersey for Al-Nassr.



Thus, he will reportedly not be able to wear the number 7 jersey for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> at this time. To make room for the incoming player, the Los Blancos will not ask Vinicius to give it up. With Ronaldo’s exit to Juventus, Madrid named Eden Hazard the team’s starting number seven.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240314_WST_495149_Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit-1200x670_d2b8f604.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-495164" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-Real-Madrid-kit.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



However, once the Belgian departed the club, the shirt went to the Brazilian since Hazard failed. The 23-year-old winger is a formidable player because of his status as one of the club’s most important performers in previous La Liga seasons.



The 25-year-old Mbappe also usually wears jersey number 10 for France, but Luka Modric is now wearing that jersey in the Spanish capital. Even if Modric’s contract <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/no-mls-or-saudi-club-contacts-modric-over-summer-move-20240225-WST-491606.html">situation may clear up this summer</a>, the answer is there in front of Kylian Mbappe’s nose.



<h2>Which kit number will Mbappe wear at Real Madrid?</h2>



Nevertheless, Mbappe will be wearing yet another legendary jersey in the Spanish capital. The 25-year-old World Cup champion will most likely wear jersey number 9 for Real Madrid, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/diarioas/status/1767280135453974539?s=46&amp;t=1Rw1VYaHMEKKfPCZNK0SVg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diario AS</a>.



This jersey number has been vacated as it belonged to the legendary Frenchman Karim Benzema, a Real Madrid great. Before signing for Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad, Benzema won the Ballon d’Or while donning the Whites’ famous No. 9 shirt.



While Benzema’s impact on Los Blancos will be hard to top, Mbappe will consider himself a success if he scores half as many goals as Benzema. Since Benzema is a striker who understands how to win over the Bernabeu faithful, Mbappe has already talked to him about life in Spain, the report adds.



After Raul left Los Blancos, Cristiano Ronaldo inherited his number seven kit, albeit he had previously worn number nine. Then, 12 years later, the Portuguese legend made his second return to Manchester United. It was then that the Red Devils requested that experienced striker Edinson Cavani give up the No. 7 jersey. It seems that Real Madrid are not likely to experience a similar scenario.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Neither 7 nor 10: Mbappe to wear this number with Real Madrid

Awaiting for an official announcement, there is one tiny detail to be ironed out: Which Real Madrid jersey number will Kylian Mbappe wear?

Even though Real Madrid has a partnership with Adidas, the arrival of Kylian Mbappe might lead to Nike designating the Frenchman as their own sports brand.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-to-real-madrid-sense-of-relief-for-manchester-city">Mbappe</a> allegedly informed <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">PSG</a> last month that he would be leaving the club when his contract ends on June 30. Despite denials in other places, Spanish reports suggest the 25-year-old already has a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-effect-psg-star-could-follow-teammate-to-real-madrid-20240223-WST-491361.html">five-year deal</a> in place.



Despite the lack of an official announcement, the Frenchman looks likely to leave the French capital for its Spanish equivalent in preparation for the 2024-25 season. It would be a stroke of genius on Madrid’s part to get a superstar of the future for nothing.



Even with Mbappe’s signing-on fee and salary demands met, the player’s famously hardball mother Fayza Lamari will be difficult, if not impossible, to please. After the details are worked out, however, it should be profitable for everyone involved.



<h2>Mbappe set for own Nike brand</h2>



Mbappe could see a meteoric increase in his status and riches in addition to his new salary at the Bernabeu. Nearing completion of his free move to the Spanish club, Mbappe will receive a signing-on bonus of over $142 million.



Nevertheless, after joining Real Madrid, the France captain may get a substantial windfall from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/neither-puma-nor-nike-2-options-for-barcelona-kits-next-season-20240301-WST-492511.html">Nike</a>. It seems like the American clothing brand has Kylian Mbappe’s label all but set to launch this summer. As is common for athletes, the Frenchman wears Nike as his official athletic apparel brand. Not only does he wear Nike gear, but Cristiano Ronaldo does as well.



Like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Rafael Nadal before him, Nike is getting ready to give him his own line. The rising star striker would make history as the first Nike soccer player to have products marketed in his name.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240313_WST_494946_Mbappe-boots-1200x670_8bfa40b6.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494962" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-boots-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-boots-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-boots-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Mbappe-boots.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



In addition to being Mbappe’s boot sponsor, reports from Spain suggest that one of Nike’s most renowned customers may be in the midst of a unique project. Eduardo Inda, chief pundit of OK Diario, made the claim when appearing on El Chiringuito.



“Nike, which is the brand that fits the player, is seriously considering creating a line of its own for the player once he signs for Real Madrid. This is a privilege that Nike has only given three world athletes. One is Michael Jordan, which has the main line. The second is LeBron James and third is Rafa Nadal. Kylian Mbappe could be the footballer that has his own line within Nike,” he said.



<h2>What does it mean for Real Madrid?</h2>



In 2019, Mbappe inked a 10-year contract with Nike. If it comes to fruition, it will extend his rumored deal with Madrid until its expiration.



Mbappe reportedly receives $15.3 million every season as part of the Nike arrangement, <a href="https://okdiario.com/diariomadridista/real-madrid/mbappe-denuncia-dueno-kebab-utilizar-nombre-uno-sus-platos-411099" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OK Diario</a> says. He is the second highest-paid player for the Oregon sportswear giant, behind Cristiano Ronaldo.



Real Madrid uses Adidas as their official sponsor, even though Mbappe is signed with Nike. With <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/clubs-with-most-jersey-sales-city-shockingly-miss-out-on-top-10-20240221-WST-490924.html">$167 million in revenue from jersey and apparel sales</a>, the Spanish powerhouse was $26 million short of their La Liga rivals, Barcelona.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Mbappe to get own Nike brand despite Madrid's deal with Adidas

Even though Real Madrid have a partnership with Adidas, the arrival of Kylian Mbappe might lead to a big financial windfall from Nike.

In the world of soccer, Kylian Mbappe’s potential move from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid is front and center. This move is close to being official, as the Spanish media have broken news that could stun the world. It will likely amount to an incredible half a billion euros in the next five years.



Mbappe will get $140 million from <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-demands-brother-to-join-him-at-madrid-whats-next-20240228-WST-492011.html">Real Madrid as a signing fee</a>, with the rest $290 million coming in installments. The club’s commitment to acquiring the French player is evident in this massive sum, which is partially funded by the proceeds from the new stadium.



This move and others like it will be easier for Madrid to complete at the club’s new stadium. The team is anticipated to generate substantial income, enabling them to invest heavily in players like Mbappe and Erling Halland.



<h2>Busy summer ahead awaits Mbappe</h2>



The La Liga leaders are also reportedly busy preparing for the arrival of the Frenchman. With what is expected to be his first international move, Mbappe is in for a busy summer. Assuming he does really relocate, he will have a busy schedule leading up to the start of the La Liga season.



The 25-year-old will also be present at the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">UEFA European Championship</a> in Germany with France and at the home Olympics in Paris. The Euro starts out on June 14 and concludes on July 14.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="798" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240309_WST_494402_imago1037171854h-1200x798_04b8574e.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=798" alt="" class="wp-image-494437" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-1200x798.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-768x511.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1037171854h-2048x1363.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Mbappe will lead France into Euro 2024 this coming summer</figcaption></figure>



In the meantime, the soccer portion of the Olympics will take place from July 24 to August 10, a whole month later. Six days after that, the Spanish season will have officially started.



No one can predict France’s or Mbappe’s performance in any given tournament. Unfortunately, this means Los Blancos won’t have much time to greet him with the fanfare and circumstance they surely want.



Also, Mbappe will probably miss the whole of their preseason visit to the United States if he does end up going to the Olympics.



<h2>When could Real Madrid host Mbappe’s presentation?</h2>



Thus, Spanish newspaper <a href="https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2024/03/08/65eac86d22601d08618b45ca.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marca</a> claims that the striker will reportedly be presented at the Santiago Bernabeu between June 3 and June 6. That is before he officially joins the French national team for the upcoming tournaments.



The week before the final will be the alternate date in case <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> or Mbappe don’t play in the Champions League final. June 28 and June 29 would be Taylor Swift’s performances at the Santiago Bernabeu, therefore it would probably be on the 30th or 31st.



Regardless of the enormous uncertainty around his future, Mbappe has maintained an exceptionally high level of performance. Even though he has been impressive, <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/luis-enrique-bizarre-response-whether-kylian-mbappe-will-be-on-psg-bench/blt7f4124024e9a2bc9" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luis Enrique</a> has made it a point to use Mbappe less often in each match.



The French striker had already been substituted after 65 minutes of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/psg-tv-schedule/">PSG</a>‘s goalless draw with Rennes a week before; he was removed at halftime during the match against his former club, Monaco. “Sooner or later, he is not going to play with us, we need to get used to that”, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/more-drama-psg-boss-explains-decision-to-sub-mbappe-off-20240302-WST-492736.html">Enrique explained</a>.



“My job is that way. I have to make decisions all the time. That’s my philosophy, my idea, to think about the best option for my team. Nothing else. Those are my decisions. I’m not going to enter into this game. I’m a professional. I don’t have a problem. It’s just a question of management and how best to manage the squad.”



Photo credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire : IMAGO / NurPhoto

Busy summer: Date of Mbappe's presentation at Madrid revealed

There are rumors about Kylian Mbappe's presentation as a Real Madrid player, despite no contract yet being inked

PSG are intent on making another wave in the transfer market, and have settled on Lamine Yamal of Barcelona to replace Kylian Mbappe.



It has been widely reported that the superstar will depart the Parisian side in order to sign with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> this summer. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/france-national-team-tv-schedule/">France</a> international was previously linked with a move to Madrid back in 2022, but ultimately signed a new deal with PSG. 



Nevertheless, Mbappe is now set to become a free agent in June.



The loss of the star will create a massive hole to fill up front for the reigning <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ligue-un-tv-schedule/">Ligue 1</a> champions. 



While PSG likely needs to sign an established forward this summer, they are also apparently attempting to splash over $200 million on a 16-year-old phenom. Marca reporter Luis Rojo is claiming that the French team offered the massive fee for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> starlet Lamine Yamal. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">LaLiga</a> club, however, reportedly rejected the proposal.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="622" height="231" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240309_WST_494242_luis-rojo_be5e0461.webp&amp;width=622&amp;height=231" alt="" class="wp-image-494277" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/luis-rojo.jpg 622w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/luis-rojo-300x111.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 622px) 100vw, 622px"></figure><figcaption>PSG are desperate to replace Kylian Mbappe with a sensational talent, and have settled on Lamine Yamal of Barcelona</figcaption></figure>



Yamal is widely regarded as one of the top teenage prospects in the world at the moment. Despite his age, the youngster has already become a mainstay in manager Xavi’s squad. In fact, the winger has appeared in 37 total matches for Barca so far this season. 27 of these games have come in league play.



<h2>Mallorca manager compares Yamal to a young Lionel Messi</h2>



In his most recent match, Yamal scored the only goal in a matchup with Mallorca on Friday. The strike was the youngster’s 13th direct goal contribution for the club during the current campaign. After the match, Mallorca manager Javier Aguirre heaped some unconventional praise on Yamal.



“The first time I saw Leo Messi play, it was 21 years ago and I needed 5 minutes to say: he’s a mouse. Lamine Yamal also plays like a mouse,” <a href="https://www.football-espana.net/2024/03/09/mallorca-boss-javier-aguirre-lauds-lamine-yamal-with-unconventional-praise-makes-lionel-messi-comparison" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proclaimed</a> Aguirre. “He looks like that too. I know that this club works very well with young people. If it continues like this, he will bring Barcelona a lot of happiness.”



Xavi was also asked about the similarities between Yamal and Messi after the game as well. The manager, however, was careful not to go too far with the comparison. “I get [the comparison] but it doesn’t benefit Lamine to make it,” <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/39686954/barcelona-lamine-yamal-flashes-messi-mallorca-goal-xavi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stated</a> Xavi.



“Anyone who has ever been compared with Messi has lost. It is not good to compare players with him. But Lamine is left footed, he comes inside … there are flashes of Messi, but we are talking abut the best footballer ever, so it is best not to compare them.”



<h2>Barcelona are unwilling to sell Lamine Yamal to PSG, despite money problems</h2>



Barca has been enduring tough financial times over the last year or so. In fact, they were previously <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/barcelona-hit-with-financial-fair-play-violation-and-fine-20230103-WST-414235.html">charged</a> with violating Financial Fair Play rules in January of 2023. As a result, the club has been attempting to create additional revenue in various ways.



One of these avenues is to make a profit in transfer windows by selling players. The Catalan Club actually generated about $67 million in player deals during the current campaign. LaLiga president Javier Tebas recently <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/laliga-president-says-barcelona-should-sell-key-stars-for-money-20240301-WST-492408.html">claimed</a> that Los Cules most likely needs to continue this trend to adhere to the league’s laws. 



Nevertheless, the Spanish side appears unwilling to part ways with their most prized teen phenom.



Photo credits: IMAGO / NurPhoto.

PSG offer Barcelona $218 million for wonderkid Lamine Yamal

PSG have reportedly had a $200 million approach for 16-year-old Lamine Yamal rejected by La Liga giants, Barcelona

Manchester City can finally relax this summer since Kylian Mbappe is supposedly close to joining Real Madrid from PSG. Even if they didn’t get their hands on him, the English team is delighted with how <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/more-drama-psg-boss-explains-decision-to-sub-mbappe-off-20240302-WST-492736.html">Mbappe</a>‘s future turned out.



The reported transfer of the Frenchman to the Santiago Bernabeu seems certain. It is not complete yet, though. The 25-year-old informed PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi in February that he would <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-effect-psg-star-could-follow-teammate-to-real-madrid-20240223-WST-491361.html">leave when his contract ends</a>.



Everyone is expecting the France captain to sign with Real Madrid in the summer, despite his alleged denial of the deal at a gala. Even if Real failed to sign him in 2022, the La Liga giants have tracked <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mbappe-makes-up-mind-on-where-he-will-play-next-season-20240204-WST-487479.html">the player for years</a>.



The French striker, however, seems to be leaving his country’s capital for Spain’s capital at this point.



<h2>Why is City happy about Mbappe to Real Madrid?</h2>



The sale of Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid will undoubtedly impact the whole European continent. A tangled web of transfers has emerged as a result of Los Blancos’ relentless pursuit of Mbappe throughout his career.



Among the clubs that stand to gain from this move is, rather unexpectedly, one that was also associated with the player. Ironically, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-city-tv-schedule/">Manchester City</a> is ecstatic about the prospect of the Spaniards acquiring Mbappe.



At this point, the treble winners believe that Los Blancos lack the financial resources necessary to sign their most prized asset, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/how-man-united-missed-out-on-signing-erling-haaland-20240306-WST-493393.html">Erling Haaland</a>. With City, the Norwegian has been a complete force since his arrival last season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240308_WST_493954_Haaland-Real-MAdrid-1200x670_8a3b8807.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494000" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Haaland-Real-MAdrid-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Haaland-Real-MAdrid-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Haaland-Real-MAdrid-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Haaland-Real-MAdrid.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Rumors about the 23-year-old talent’s prospective transfer to Madrid have circulated for some time. What’s more, he recently refused to deny the possibility when asked about it earlier this week. But a summer move seems out of the question at this point.



Now, it seems Mbappe is going to Real Madrid. Consequently, City can concentrate on keeping its important players instead of worrying about losing them to the Spanish powerhouses.



<h2>Impossible to get both Haaland and Mbappe?</h2>



Reportedly, Haaland’s contract has a provision that would facilitate a transfer to Madrid, according to Spanish media. It does seem unlikely, however, that they would splash out on both Haaland and Mbappe in the same summer.



While speaking with <a href="https://twitter.com/AfterRMC/status/1765511883581239380" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RMC Sport</a>, journalist Julen Laurens said the following.



“At City, they are relieved that Kylian Mbappe is going to Real Madrid, that closes the door for the moment to Haaland leaving this summer.”



According to <a href="https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2024/02/19/65d28546268e3ebb6e8b4575.html#:~:text=En%20el%20acuerdo%20en%20firme,a%20los%2050%20millones%20netos." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marca</a>, a Spanish tabloid, Mbappe has already signed a five-year deal with the Whites. But their president Florentino Perez denied knowing about the player. A fan asked him whether the Frenchman would move to the Bernabeu, and he responded “Mbappe? Who is Mbappe?” with an air of irony.



Before that, he grinned and responded similarly when someone said, “You have to bring Davies [to Madrid]” about Alphonso Davies, a defender for Bayern Munich.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Mbappe to Real Madrid: Sense of relief for Manchester City?

According to reports, Manchester City can finally relax this summer since Kylian Mbappe is supposedly close to joining Real Madrid from PSG.

Mbappe to Real Madrid: Sense of relief for Manchester City? - World Soccer Talk

Naming rights for the French <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ligue-un-tv-schedule/">Ligue 1</a> are set to change shortly. The division currently has a sponsorship deal in place with Uber Eats. In the agreement, the online food ordering and delivery platform pays Ligue 1 $16-$17 million per season. This agreement has been in place for the last three years.



Nevertheless, Uber Eats, according to French <a href="https://rmcsport.bfmtv.com/football/ligue-1/direct-ligue-1-suivez-toute-l-actualite-du-championnat-de-france-en-direct-sur-rmc-sport_LN-202403050294.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>, did not want to continue the deal at this particular price. As a result, league officials have been working on securing a new sponsorship agreement over the last few weeks. It now seems as if McDonald’s is pushing to strike a deal.



RMC Sport reporter Daniel Riolo has revealed that McDonald’s recently sent an official offer to Vincent Labrune, the French Football Federation president. The reporter went on to say that the American fast-food company will top the league’s previous Uber Eats agreement.



“They (UberEats) did not want to continue paying at that price, and there was an offer submitted to Vincent Labrune with a tidy sum,” <a href="https://rmcsport.bfmtv.com/football/ligue-1/direct-ligue-1-suivez-toute-l-actualite-du-championnat-de-france-en-direct-sur-rmc-sport_LN-202403050294.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">claimed</a> Riolo. “It’s an offer from McDonald’s. They haven’t yet planned the communication for the junk food and everything, they’re working on it. It’ll be around €60 million ($65 million) over three years. It’s a clear increase.”



<h2>McDonald’s not the most prestigious sponsor possible</h2>



Although the deal is not yet official, it certainly seems as if an agreement between the two sides is close. As the world’s largest fast-food chain, McDonald’s is the most recognizable brand on the globe. They currently have more than 40,000 restaurants worldwide and employ around 1.7 million people. 1,800 of these restaurants are in France.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240305_WST_493165_Ligue-1-Uber-Eats-1200x670_d7a7825c.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-493192" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Ligue-1-Uber-Eats-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Ligue-1-Uber-Eats-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Ligue-1-Uber-Eats-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Ligue-1-Uber-Eats.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Despite this, McDonald’s does not necessarily have the best reputation as a company. For example, the American restaurant is widely seen as a cheap value brand. Although Ligue 1 Uber Eats is also not a prestigious sounding name, Ligue 1 McDonald’s sounds even worse.



Other top European soccer leagues such as the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">LaLiga</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/serie-a-tv-schedule/">Serie A</a> have more esteemed corporate sponsorships in place. The Spanish top flight currently has an agreement with EA Sports. The Italian league, on the other hand, is known as Serie A TIM for sponsorship reasons. England’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> was also previously referred to as the Barclay’s Premier League up until 2016.



<h2>Officials are hoping to finalize an agreement in coming weeks</h2>



Nevertheless, most soccer fans do not typically refer to these leagues along with their corporate sponsors. Like these other divisions, the French league’s potential agreement with McDonald’s will not affect fans’ understanding of the league.



As with most topics regarding professional sports, money is fueling these sponsorship deals. Ligue 1 officials will welcome the news of an agreement with the massive fast-food company. After all, the division has struggled recently to secure a new media rights deal with television networks.



Ligue 1 officials and McDonald’s are ironing out the final details regarding a deal in the coming days. The aforementioned report claims that an agreement could become official during an upcoming board of directors meeting later this month.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

McDonald's set to become official sponsor of Ligue 1 in huge deal

France's Ligue 1 and McDonald's have reportedly agreed to a new multi-year sponsorship deal set to start ahead of the 2024/25 season.

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