On January 1, Arsenal might conclude an eight-year scouting mission by signing Kylian Mbappé from Paris Saint-Germain due to an ongoing contract issue. Despite rumors connecting Mbappé to the Premier League or La Liga in recent years, contract negotiations with PSG prevented any moves. Last summer, the 25-year-old rejected a one-year contract extension, leaving only 12 months on his deal. PSG’s attempt to find a middle ground led to keeping Mbappé out of the first team and preseason training, ultimately leading to negotiations for his departure. However, he returned to the team after the Ligue 1 season started, showing no clear desire to leave.
With six months left on his contract, the possibility of a departure grows, attracting interest from teams like Arsenal. Pre-contract registration could facilitate a deal as early as January 1, allowing Mbappé to sign with a team outside Ligue 1 in the summer. While confirmation might take a few months, his potential addition would bolster Arsenal’s offensive capabilities significantly. This move could bring an end to an eight-year pursuit, as Arsenal missed out on Mbappé in 2018.
Former scout Gilles Grimandi revealed past efforts to sign Mbappé in 2016, emphasizing the unsuccessful persuasion despite a meeting with Arsene Wenger and Richard Law in the south of France. The timing, following a league loss to Swansea and with an upcoming crucial match against Tottenham, was deemed unfavorable. The potential January signing represents a second chance for Arsenal to secure Mbappé, fulfilling a long-standing pursuit and addressing their need for firepower in the attack.
