Real Madrid is poised to make a blockbuster announcement this week, confirming the signing of Kylian Mbappe.
The French superstar will receive a signing-on bonus exceeding £85 million (€100 million) as part of his move to the Spanish giants.
Mbappe, 25, has departed Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) after his contract expired, ending a five-year stint in which he netted 256 goals in 308 appearances. He originally joined PSG in 2018 for a record £166 million but has now left on a free transfer.
Real Madrid, fresh off securing their 15th Champions League title on Saturday, have long pursued Mbappe. Their efforts to sign him in 2022 were thwarted when he opted to extend his contract with PSG for two more years. Now, with that contract concluded and Mbappe declining a one-year extension, he is free to join Real.
Under his new five-year deal at the Santiago Bernabeu, Mbappe will earn £12.8 million (€15 million) annually after tax. The substantial signing-on bonus will be distributed in installments over the duration of his contract.
Remarkably, Mbappe has accepted a pay cut to join Real Madrid. His final year at PSG saw him earning a gross salary of €75 million (£63.9 million) plus a €30 million-a-year (£25.6 million) signing-on bonus.
His departure eases PSG’s financial commitments by at least €220 million (£187.5 million) in gross costs.
Real Madrid fans are eagerly anticipating Mbappe’s impact on the team.
Spanish football journalist Semra Hunter has speculated on how the dynamic forward will integrate into Real Madrid’s already potent lineup, potentially boosting their attacking options even further.
This transfer signifies a significant milestone in Mbappe’s career and a major coup for Real Madrid, who continue to strengthen their squad with top-tier talent.
As the official announcement approaches, excitement builds among supporters and analysts alike, eager to see Mbappe don the iconic white jersey.