Barcelona Prepared To Rival Real Madrid For This Ligue 1 Superstar: Dream Signing For Koeman? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Marca has claimed that Barcelona are prepared to rival Real Madrid in pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe as the Catalans are looking to bring in a suitable long-term replacement for Lionel Messi. It is believed that Barca are monitoring the French striker’s situation but could face competition from Los Blancos, Liverpool and Juventus in the race to secure his services next summer (via Marca).

Mbappe’s Sparkling Form At Paris In Recent Times

Mbappe’s current contract at Le Parc Des Princes is set to run out in the summer of 2022 which could mean that Thomas Tuchel will be under pressure to cash in on him at the end of this season or else risk losing him for free in 2022.

The Paris-born goal-getter has made a terrific start to this campaign after producing a few match-winning performances over the past few weeks. He has found the back of the net on four occasions and grabbed four assists in five matches for the French giants across all fronts.

Mbappe had another highly productive season at the French capital last season as he banged in 30 goals and secured 19 assists in 37 appearances in multiple competitions. His offensive contributions helped PSG lift the Ligue 1 title once again after he averaged 4.4 shots, 2.0 key passes and 2.8 dribbles per game in the 2019-20 Ligue 1 campaign. The 21-year-old linked up play well in the opposition half as evident from his pass success rate of 80.4% in the French first division (stats via whoscored).

What Are The French International’s Greatest Strengths?

Mbappe is one of the quickest players in Ligue 1 football and can use his pace to run in behind the opposition defence so that he can create all kinds of problems inside their penalty box. He has transformed himself into an excellent finisher in front of goal and can be a delight to watch when he is dribbling at full speed in the attacking third of the pitch.

The 36-time French international is not afraid to put in an industrious performance for his team and has even got the eye to pick out a killer pass up top. However, only time will tell whether he can maintain his incredible standards in Spanish football if Barcelona manage to win the race for his signature in the future.

Will Mbappe Be A Dream Signing For The Catalans?

Mbappe will undeniably be a dream acquisition for the Catalans as he is a transcendental talent and could leave a legacy similar to Messi’s if he can continue improving his numbers over the next decade. Ronald Koeman needs to make a few marquee signings in the coming transfer windows if he wants a strong squad capable of challenging for the UEFA Champions League crown in the years to come. Recruiting Mbappe will significantly improve the quality of the Barca first-team and could help them become more successful even after Messi’s departure from the Nou Camp.