After years of speculation, Real Madrid have finally got their man as they announced the signing of Kylian Mbappe. The 25-year-old had already confirmed he would not extend his contract at Paris Saint-Germain beyond this summer, and it had been an open secret that he was heading to the Spanish capital. The European giants won their 15th UEFA Champions League title at the weekend.
Real Madrid have confirmed the signing of Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, with the striker penning a five-year contract.
The France international has finally joined Madrid after several years of speculation suggesting a move was imminent, including both of the previous two summers.
On each occasion, Mbappe ultimately committed his future to PSG, where he became a figurehead after the departure of fellow superstars Lionel Messi and Neymar.
However, the 25-year-old decided that he would not be extending his contract in Paris for another year, meaning he could agree a free transfer to a club outside France from January.
His move to Los Blancos has now been confirmed, days after the Spanish giants lifted their 15th Champions League trophy, beating Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on Saturday evening.
In a brief statement, the club announced: “Real Madrid CF and Kylian Mbappe have reached an agreement whereby he will be a Real Madrid player for the next five seasons.”
Mbappe scored 44 goals for PSG last season, his highest tally. He has 256 goals in 308 matches after joining the club in 2017 from Monaco, initially on loan before completing a €180 million (£153m) permanent deal the following summer.
In his time at Parc des Princes, Mbappe became the club’s record goalscorer, claimed six Ligue 1 titles, won the Coupe de France four times and the Coupe de la Ligue twice.
In 2020, PSG finished as runners-up in the Champions League, the closest they have got to winning the competition.
The Frenchman emphasised how excited he is to join Madrid in a post on Instagram.
“A dream come true,” he said.
“So happy and proud to join the club of my dreams, Real Madrid
“Nobody can understand how excited I am right now.
“Can’t wait to see you, Madridistas, and thanks for your unbelievable support. Hala Madrid!