Real Madrid will nervously await the outcome of a meeting between Kylian Mbappe and Paris Saint-Germain over his future, as his potential future move to the Santiago Bernabeu could be in jeopardy.
According to a report from MARCA, the 24-year-old is set for crunch talks with PSG as all parties seek a resolution on his future.
There were recent reports that Real had agreed a deal with Mbappe to join when his contract expires in 2024, but PSG want to sell the Frenchman now if he does not agree a new contract at the club.
MARCA have now claimed that PSG will aim to extend his deal, while also agreeing to let him leave next year, and subsequently forcing Real Madrid to pay a fee for him.
If no resolution can be reached, then Real could swoop for him now. But it remains to be seen what kind of fee the Parisians could ask for.
Do Real Madrid need Mbappe now?
The departure of Karim Benzema may have increased the urgency to bring in a star forward.
Marco Asensio, Eden Hazard and Mariano also departing for free has left Real Madrid light in attack. Although Brahim Diaz and Joselu have been added to the squad, Carlo Ancelotti may be desperate for more firepower.
Mbappe has been an obsession of Real Madrid’s for a number of years. If the opportunity arises, signing him this summer can help bridge the gap to Barcelona, having fallen far behind their rivals in La Liga last season.
The outcome of the meeting will be crucial. If Mbappe does sign a new deal, then Real will have to factor in a potentially substantial transfer fee next summer, which they may have been able to otherwise avoid.
This could even impact whether Real move for alternative target Harry Kane, who could also be available on a free transfer next season, should Mbappe become unattainable.