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FootballThe 5 Players PSG Can Sign to Replace Kylian Mbappe, Including Stars from EPL and Serie A
- Kylian Mbappe has announced his decision to leave PSG
- The Parisiens are on the lookout to find the forward's heir
- Sports Brief looks at who PSG could sign in Mbappe's place
Kylian Mbappe has sent shockwaves throughout the footballing world after reportedly informing Paris Saint-Germain of his desire to leave the club this summer.
The specifics of the 25-year-old's exit are still being negotiated and an official confirmation is expected in the coming months once the details have been finalised.
According to transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, the 2018 World Cup winner has formally informed the club of his intentions and is likely to sign for Real Madrid.
The Italian journalist also reported that Mbappe had informed PSG president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, of his decision to depart the club as a free agent this summer.
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Finding a player who can replicate Mbappe is a tall order, but PSG should not be short of options when it comes to picking out a ready-made replacement.
Sports Brief takes a look at five players who could replace the French superstar at the Parc des Princes this summer.
Who can replace Mbappe at PSG?
Marcus Rashford
PSG have reportedly set their sights on Rashford as a potential replacement for Kylian Mbappe.
A product of Manchester United's youth system, the Englishman seamlessly transitioned into the senior squad and adapted to the Premier League.
Having reached the 30-goal milestone two seasons ago, Rashford could potentially fill Mbappe's shoes and contribute to PSG's success.
Mohamed Salah
Could Salah decide to quit Liverpool and join PSG as Mbappe's replacement a year after inking a lucrative contract? That remains to be seen.
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FootballAt Anfield, the Egyptian King reportedly earns about £350,000 each week, having scored 18 goals and provided nine assists in 27 appearances for the Reds this season, per Transfermarkt.
There is no doubting his quality, but he will turn 31 this summer. The Merseysiders reportedly value him at €80 million, which could prove to be a major stumbling block for PSG.
Rafael Leao
PSG's football advisor, Luis Campos, has expressed a desire to reunite with Leao, whom he scouted and facilitated a deal for during his tenure as LOSC Lille's sporting director.
A star player at AC Milan, the Portuguese star recently extended his contract until 2028, yet holds a short-term release clause of €175 million.
PSG would need to also adhere to Financial Fair Play regulations before pursuing new signings in the summer, as their substantial wage bill poses a significant hurdle.
Victor Osimhen
Osimhen has been one of Europe's stars for the past couple of years. He has burgeoned into a well-rounded centre-forward this term and has been in scintillating form for Napoli.
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FootballThe Nigeria international's prolific goal-scoring form was enough to hand his club their first Serie A title in 30 years.
Napoli are not keen to let their star player leave either and only a bid of €150 million will bring them to the negotiating table, according to Il Mattino.
He would be a like-for-like replacement for Mbappe and a great long-term signing for PSG.
Serge Gnabry
Recent reports have suggested that Gnabry's future at Bayern Munich might not be secure.
The Bavarians extended his contract until 2026 last summer, but since signing the bumper deal, the German winger has not exactly stepped up to the level expected of him.
With his incredible performance in the previous Bundesliga season, Gnabry remains a credible threat. As a right-footed right-winger, he can add a fresh sense of dynamism to PSG's attacking setup if he does end up going there.
Is Mbappe open to join Arsenal?
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FootballIn other related news, Sports Brief also previously reported on rumours that Mbappe was considering joining Arsenal in what would be a remarkable move.
Despite Spanish giants, Real Madrid, being the frontrunners for the France captain's signature, there is emerging competition from the Premier League.
Liverpool is also viewed as a credible destination for the 25-year-old but some sources suggest Mbappe would be open to joining the North London club.