Real Madrid set 'deadline' for Kylian Mbappe decision

Real Madrid have set Kylian Mbappe a 'firm deadline' to make a decision on his future, as the ongoing speculation over the striker's next club continues.

The superstar forward is in the final year of his deal at Paris Saint-Germain and, while he may yet extend his terms, he is able to agree a pre-contract ahead of a summer move to another club outside of France from as early as 1 January.

Real Madrid have long been seen as Mbappe's most likely next destination, though recent reports suggested the 14-time European champions had cooled their interest amid concerns over his price tag.

However, AS now report that Madrid are still in the hunt and will 'launch their offensive' for Mbappe at the start of the new year and give him until 15 January to make a definitive decision.

The report adds that if Madrid cannot get an agreement from the 2018 World Cup winner by that deadline – or if he signs a renewal with PSG before the end of the year – they will instead turn their attentions to 'Plan B' striker: Erling Haaland.

Liverpool are not name-checked in AS' piece but have been regularly suggested as potential suitors for Mbappe, with recent reports claiming the Reds are still optimistic of their chances of what would be a marquee deal, amid uncertainty over his decision.

However, Anfield Watch understands that the Reds would only assess a possible move for Mbappe in the event that Mohamed Salah leaves for the Saudi Pro League.

Salah – now one goal away from reaching 200 with Liverpool – is highly unlikely to want (or be allowed) to leave Anfield in January, whatever offer may come in.

While the situation could well change in the summer, when the Egyptian will have just one year left on his contract, the reality is that the Reds would need to act now to put in the groundwork required to convince Mbappe.

Even with money from a possible Salah sale, the Frenchman's wages and signing bonus would also likely make him a prohibitively expensive transfer for Liverpool.