Real Madrid is currently lacking a top-class striker after Karim Benzema's departure. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe has recently closed the door on staying at PSG by announcing that he will not renew his contract. So, what are they waiting for? They should come together.
The original plan was for Real Madrid to only approach Mbappe in the summer of 2024 when his contract with PSG expires and he becomes a free agent. At that point, Los Blancos wouldn't have to spend a significant amount on the transfer fee, just offering Mbappe a massive salary would suffice.
However, things didn't go as planned. Karim Benzema unexpectedly left the Bernabeu and joined Al-Ittihad for a lucrative wage. Real Madrid was caught off guard by this decision, as they believed the French striker would stay for another season before leaving.
Benzema's sudden departure left Real Madrid President Florentino Perez and the board in a difficult position. They had to expedite the process of finding a top-class striker to replace the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner.
There are several candidates on Real Madrid's radar. First is Harry Kane, a proven striker over the years, who is reportedly looking to leave Tottenham with only one year left on his contract. The English star would be a worthy replacement for Benzema, but he comes with a high price tag and is no longer young.
Another option is Erling Haaland, the young Norwegian forward who has been in incredible form. However, Manchester City is unwilling to part with their brightest star. Other candidates like Victor Osimhen or Dusan Vlahovic carry too many risks.
After considering all the options, Mbappe remains the most suitable target. He is young, of high quality, and has a wealth of experience. Additionally, Mbappe has a great allure and fits perfectly with a global brand like Real Madrid.
In reality, Real Madrid has pursued Mbappe for a while now and came close to signing him in 2021 and 2022. Unfortunately, the forward decided to stay at PSG and sign a new contract.
But at this point, there seems to be nothing that can prevent Mbappe from joining Real Madrid. The French forward has publicly stated that he will not extend his contract with PSG and will become a free agent in the summer of 2024.
This puts Paris Saint-Germain in a position where they have to sell Mbappe this summer if they don't want to lose him for nothing. Therefore, Real Madrid and Mbappe have the upper hand in negotiations and can potentially lower the price.
What will Real Madrid's squad look like?
Real Madrid is in the process of gradually replacing their aging pillars with young and talented stars. In the 2023/24 season, it appears they will accomplish this.
Jude Bellingham's transfer has reached its final stages, and his official unveiling is only a matter of time. Fran Garcia has already arrived at Bernabeu to bolster the left-back position. Now, Real Madrid only needs to finalize the contract with Mbappe to complete a strong and stable squad for the coming years.
In goal, the excellent Thibaut Courtois will continue as the main goalkeeper, with Andriy Lunin as his backup. The defensive quartet consists of Fran Garcia, Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and Dani Carvajal. Ferland Mendy, David Alaba, Jesus Vallejo, and Nacho Monreal will be their substitutes.
The midfield is where the most noticeable changes will happen. Jude Bellingham, alongside young newcomers Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde, will form the starting midfield trio. The veteran duo of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, along with Eduardo Camavinga, will be ready to step in when needed.
Upfront, Mbappe will lead the line, supported by the Brazilian duo of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes.
However, the backup options such as Alvaro Rodriguez, Joselu, or Brahim Diaz are not highly regarded, and Real Madrid risks weakening when the trio of Vinicius, Mbappe, and Rodrygo face injuries or suspensions. Hence, it is likely that Los Blancos will look to strengthen their attacking options with additional signings.
