Do PSG already have Kylian Mbappe’s replacement? Xavi Simons may play key role on return from RB Leipzig loan after star striker departs

Paris Saint-GermainXavi SimonsTransfersRB LeipzigKylian MbappeLigue 1BundesligaReal Madrid

Paris Saint-Germain plan to integrate Xavi Simons into their squad next season as they seek a replacement for Kylian Mbappe, a report says.

Mbappe has communicated desire to leaveXavi Simons on loan at RB LeipzigPlans to reintegrate star next season

WHAT HAPPENED?

PSG are set to lose Mbappe this summer, with the forward expressing his desire to leave on a free transfer at the end of the season. A move to Real Madrid appears certain and L’Equipe now reports that Xavi Simons is set to be reintegrated once his loan spell with RB Leipzig expires, perhaps in a capacity that will see him replace the superstar.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Simons initially joined PSG in 2019, having moved to the club from Barcelona’s youth academy. He has found minutes hard to come by, though, and was actually sold to PSV in 2022, where he spent a season, before PSG exercised a buy-back clause and subsequently loaned him to Leipzig. The 20-year-old has scored five goals and registered seven assists in the Bundesliga this season but he has only ever made 11 first-team appearances for PSG.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Ligue 1 giants have been linked with mega-money moves to replace Mbappe, even though he is leaving on a free transfer. They are reportedly interested in Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao.

WHAT NEXT?

PSG have some time to plan for succeeding Mbappe, but in the meantime will continue their pursuit of success this season. They next play Nantes on Saturday in Ligue 1.