Paris Saint-Germain's star-studded front three could soon be consigned to the history books. Lionel Messi, Neymar Junior and Kylian Mbappe 2️⃣ may have their days numbered as an attacking trio.
The French club are making plans for next season, following yet another 2️⃣ disappointing campaign at the continental level. The future of head coach Cristophe Galtier is in doubt and so too that 2️⃣ of the iconic forward line.
New direction
The idea the Parisians are leaning towards at the moment is a change of direction, 2️⃣ a new look, a distinct identity. Their 'Galactico' era hasn't brought success, so the time has come to freshen things 2️⃣ up and try something new.
The plan is to build a new team of young French talent, led by Mbappe, who 2️⃣ embodies the best of the domestic product. This change of course to invest in young and rising talent mirrors Real 2️⃣ Madrid's change in policy in recent years.
The French club also want to grow a greater sense of identity and a 2️⃣ connection between team and fans. A more sustainable financial approach, coupled with a greater French presence in the squad, could 2️⃣ help.
Messi on the way out
PSG would like Messi to stay another year, but not at any price and, as things 2️⃣ stand, both sides are very far apart. For his part, the player is open to returning to Barcelona, should that 2️⃣ be a viable option.
Neymar, a complicated sale
Meanwhile, the club consider that Neymar's Parisian chapter has come to an end and 2️⃣ they are keen to shift him as they do not see him as part of the club's future. However, with 2️⃣ a lucrative contract running until 2027, that will not be an easy operation.
Mbappe the priority
The member of the star trio 2️⃣ most likely to stay - and most wanted by the club - is Mbappe, despite the tensions between player and 2️⃣ organisation in recent times. The player has two years to run on his current deal, meaning that next summer he 2️⃣ could choose to run down the final year and leave on a free in 2025.
PSG see Mbappe as their franchise 2️⃣ player, as the face of their present and future, but they still need to convince him he can fulfil his 2️⃣ ambitions at the club. Mbappe wants to win the Champions League and will need to be persuaded that he can 2️⃣ do that at PSG.
What does the French press say?
In France, much of the media seems to agree that the club 2️⃣ is happy to let Messi walk this summer and also wants to move Neymar on. There is also recognition that 2️⃣ the latter will not be possible.
Some do believe, however, that Qatar would like to retain Messi because of the value 2️⃣ of his image and association. The most likely, as things stand, is that next season both Mbappe and Neymar remain 2️⃣ in Paris, as Neymar will be too difficult to sell and Messi too difficult to keep.
