Real Madrid Identify Juventus Striker as an Alternative Option if Mbappe Transfer Fails

• Real Madrid have identified Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic as an alternative option if a transfer for Kylian Mbappe fails to materialize
• Mbappe and PSG are at loggerheads after the France international refused to sign an extension
• Vlahovic has been linked with a move to Chelsea

Real Madrid have been chasing Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe for months, and given how things have unfolded in France in the last few weeks, the 24-year-old could be on the move this summer.

If they fail to secure the services of one of the world's best players, they could reportedly make a move for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic as an alternative option.

The France captain has been in a protracted contract standoff with the club for weeks. His current deal ends next summer, and he refused to sign an extension. Therefore, the club will be forced to sell him this summer because he could leave for nothing next year when his deal expires.

Mbappe vs PSG: Kylian Mbappe's position on transfer saga revealed after PSG axed him from Japan Tour

Football

PSG reportedly knows Mbappe wants to run down his contract and join Real Madrid on a free transfer, a situation the club is desperate to avoid, per Sky Sports.

Real Madrid needs a striker

Madrid's legendary striker Karim Benzema left the club earlier this summer after 14 successful years. Striker Joselu was brought in, but some feel they need more firepower to challenge domestically and in Europe.

Vlahovic has been reportedly identified as the ideal target to lead the line as they wait for the Mbappe situation to unfold, per Mirror. Romelu Lukaku has been linked with a move to Juventus, which means Vlahovic will have to compete for a spot up front with the Belgian.

If they make a move for the Serbian, they would likely land him since they are Real Madrid. Vlahovic is also a major target for English side Chelsea.

Mbappe drops cryptic message

Kylian Mbappe: Why Are PSG Trying to Get Rid of the France Captain?

Football

Elsewhere, Sports Brief reported on Mbappe teasing a Real Madrid move after posting a cryptic message on social media, with his future at PSG still uncertain.

The 24-year-old sparked debate on social media after posting a series of pics fans believe are 'clues', after being left out of the Parisians' pre-season tour of Asia.

Mbappe caused speculation about replacing Karim Benzema at Real Madrid after posting the set of pics, including one of three cards each showing the number 9.