Real Madrid launch swoop for Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe and Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham – Paper Round

The return of the Galacticos

Real Madrid are planning to revive their interest in Paris Saint-Germain forward Kylian Mbappe this summer despite the fact that the World Cup winner decided against joining Los Blancos last May. Real Madrid believe Mbappe could be available due to ongoing doubts over his long-term future in the French capital and could launch a world-record bid to secure his signature.

The Spanish club also believe they can pip Manchester City to the signing of Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund, which would represent a sensational summer in the transfer market.

“The Spanish champions have discussed both players arriving in what would likely be a record summer of spending to be part of a new ‘Galacticos’ team that could dominate Europe over the next decade.

“The possibility of having one season left on his terms could see clubs putting pressure on PSG with offers this summer. Real will look to revive their interest in Mbappe if there is a hint he would be available on the market.”

Where next for Kovacic?

Mateo Kovacic is expected to leave Stamford Bridge this summer as Chelsea are forced to trim their bloated squad. The 29-year-old has just one year remaining on his current contract and will be sold so he does not leave for free in 2024. Kovacic has attracted interest from a number of top clubs around Europe and could be followed out of west London by Mason Mount.

“The club are under pressure to raise funds through sales and Kovacic is likely to be one of several high-profile departures. Kovacic has a year left on his deal and the uncertainty over his contract has put his future in doubt.

“The desire to ensure that players do not leave on free transfers could also prompt Chelsea to sell Mason Mount. The England midfielder, who has a year left on his deal, is being heavily pursued by Liverpool. Arsenal, Bayern and United are also interested in him.”

Roma ready to return Abraham to England

AS Roma are willing to part ways with Tammy Abraham this summer and expect the England international to return to the Premier League due to his price tag. The Italians will demand £40 million for Abraham, meaning it is unlikely that he stays in Italy, but there has been interest from Manchester United and Aston Villa in recent months.

“Roma expect any buyer to come from the Premier League because of the price tag and also his contract would make it hard for him to move to another Italian club.

“Chelsea do have a buy-back option on the England international but a return seems unlikely with their bulging squad numbers.”

Arsenal target Premier League duo

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is looking within the Premier League to add some ready-made talent to his squad ahead of next season. The Gunners boss is looking to add some depth to his defensive options and has his eye on a couple of players who are Premier League-ready.

“But they could also look for a backup right-back, having lost Takehiro Tomiyasu to a long-term knee injury. Gunners scouts have made checks on Leicester’s Belgian full-back Timothy Castagne as one potential option.”