When discussing replacing Kylian Mbappé, many experts point at the forwards Paris Saint-Germain must pursue. However, could the Parisians decide to bolster other parts of the team with the money they’ll save from the winger’s departure?
The Athletic put a list together of players that the Ligue 1 side should pursue to begin the post-Mbappé. Journalist Liam Tharme writes that they should push for FC Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong instead of going with an attacking player. Tharme notes that the Dutchman would be an ideal fit for manager Luis Enrique’s system.
“Replacing your star forward with a defensive midfielder sounds ridiculous, but it’s what Luis Enrique needs to implement his positional play 4-3-3 at PSG — a deep-lying playmaker to run the build-up through,” Tharme wrote.
“There’s a reason why Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola (Rodri) and Arsenal counterpart Mikel Arteta (Declan Rice) build their teams around a press-resistant playmaker.”
A recent report from a Spanish media outlet revealed that PSG, Chelsea, and Manchester United monitor the situation between Barcelona and de Jong. According to the Spanish media outlet, de Jong’s situation is complex. Premier League clubs are reportedly ready to offer €100 million, and Barcelona may choose to sell.
The 26-year-old will become the highest-paid player in the squad, thanks to adjustments made during the pandemic. Rumors suggest his net earnings could surpass €20 million in the last two seasons of his contract.
