Kylian Mbappe has been on Real Madrid's radar for years and on more than one occasion, a move has looked close. It has never ended up materialising though. Next summer could be the best chance for it to happen, with the Frenchman's contract with Paris Saint-Germain set to run out at the end of this season.
The possibility of him signing a contract extension with PSG has not been ruled out completely. But he seems much more likely to leave than to stay at this point in time.
Mbappe's career at the club level has stagnated a bit over the years, as PSG have never really been able to challenge consistently at the European level. Thus, leaving might be just what he needs to do at this point in time.
Real Madrid fans would be delighted if the club were able to sign Mbappe, especially as a free agent. But it could result in the departure of one of their well-established superstars.
Real Madrid superstar could leave if Mbappe joins
As reported by Okdiario, Eduardo Inda said on El Chiringuito de Jugones:
"If Mbappé comes, someone will have to leave because we have to make money. In addition, there are doubled positions, unless he played 9, but there will be Endrick who would also be a problem. I have always said that there is a great candidate to leave and this is information."
He further continued regarding the matter:
"I'm talking about Vinicius. If Mbappé came, someone has to leave and a player for whom a lot of money would be received is the Brazilian."
Vinicius is one of Real Madrid's most important players. But his position at the club might be weakened if Mbappe arrived.
Mbappe is at his best when playing through the left flank as well. He can play as a number 9, but would not Real Madrid want to have their best player in his most effective position?
There has also been talk of signing an out-and-out striker in the future, with names like Erling Haaland, Victor Osimhen and more being linked. Add to that Vinicius' recent injury problems and the rise of Jude Bellingham as the face of the team this season and suddenly the Brazilian's place at Santiago Bernabeu does not seem as certain as it did six months ago.