1. Kylian Mbappé, Monaco
The 18-year-old has burst onto the scene as one of Europe’s hottest talents, racking up a total of 26 goals across all competitions in his breakout season.
On February 11, Mbappé netted his first career hat-trick Ligue 1 hat-trick of his career, becoming the youngest player to do so since 17-year-old Jérémy Ménez did it 12 years ago.
The young Monaco striker—who also notched his first international cap for France in March—has been rumored to Arsenal for months, with reports all but confirming the French phenom’s Anfield arrival.
More significantly, he’s seemed open to the idea of joining the Gunners.
More from Playing for 90
- Alexia Putellas reaches 400 games with Barcelona
- Everything you need to know ahead of the 250th ‘Super Clásico’
- Barcelona put five past Real Betis
- Manchester City suffer but come away with win over West Ham
- Baffling Liga MX ruling strips Puebla of a hard-earned victory
According to the latest reports out of London, insiders say Arsenal is willing to fork over Monaco’s £85 million price tag, more than twice the current £40 million transfer record paid for Mesut Ozil.
But Arsenal isn’t the only squad vying for Mbappé’s services.
Jose Mourinho is said to want him, Real Madrid already bid a record £103 million and either could snatch the Frenchman before Arsenal even gets a chance to pitch.
But even with lighter pockets, Arsenal could still make a strong bid. According to Mbappé’s latest sentiments, he wants guaranteed playing time, wherever he goes.
“I’ll be the only one who decides, along with my family. No one will decide for me. I won’t go anywhere where I have been told to go. It’ll be my choice, and I’ll back that choice,” Mbappé told beIN Sports.
According to the latest reports, Arsenal intends to guarantee just that—something Real Madrid, Juventus and Man U will not.
“All I want to do is play. I’m at an age where I have to play. I’m not 35 or 36 years old towards the end of my career or where I have to be careful,” he said.