Mbappe doubts linger as Real Madrid hover but Pochettino backs ´mature´ PSG star

Kylian Mbappe has convinced Mauricio Pochettino he will not be affected by transfer speculation as Paris Saint-Germain battle to keep the striker from Real Madrid’s clutches.

France frontman Mbappe was targeted by Madrid in August and the Spanish giants are expected to attempt to sign the 23-year-old once more, with his contract less than six months away from expiring.

So far, Mbappe has given little indication about his plans, and it is an enviable choice that awaits the former Monaco player.

PSG head coach Pochettino will keep his focus on matters on the pitch, with contract negotiations not part of his remit. Mbappe could leave on a free transfer, but PSG hope he will agree to lucrative terms on a long-term extension.

Pochettino has been assured by Mbappe’s words and deeds that the player who has 15 goals in 24 games this season will not be distracted by the question of where he will be playing next term.

“I think the contract situations in football only affects you if you are not mature enough,” Pochettino said in a news conference on Sunday.

“Kylian Mbappe is mature and we know what the conditions are here. We do not think it is a problem. We all hope Kylian Mbappe can stay at the club for many years, but there are two sides to making this decision.

“We hope that Kylian Mbappe continues performing as he has been doing and that there is a positive solution for everyone.”

 

 

 

 

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Mbappe has said he has no intention of jumping ship in mid-season, meaning PSG can plan around him for the rest of this campaign.

They lead Ligue 1 and are through to the last 16 of the Champions League, where Madrid of all teams will be their opponents, which will inevitably trigger a new wave of speculation.

Speaking to CNN, Mbappe said in December: “No, I’m not joining Real Madrid in January. In January it’s not happening.

“I’m in Paris Saint-Germain, I’m really happy, and I will 100 per cent finish the season as a PSG player. I’ll give everything to win with Paris all titles this year.”

PSG will hope to win the Coupe de France again, after taking that title in six of the last seven seasons, and begin their campaign against fourth-tier outfit Vannes on Monday.

“I like the Coupe de France,” said Pochettino. “It’s the oldest competition in France, we love this competition and playing against teams like Vannes. That’s real football, it’s a football that speaks to everyone and we can’t wait to be there.”