Mbappe statement, Kone and Rice latest: The Daily Transfer Round Up

Mbappe clarifies new contract position
Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappe obviously decided it was time for him to publicly address the rumours about his potential transfer this summer that have been popping up like mushrooms in the last day or two.

Therefore, he’s come out with an official statement, confirming the reports saying he wouldn’t be signing a new PSG contract.

“I have never discussed any contract renewal with PSG”, the 24-year-old attacker told the AFP agency.

“The board has been informed since July 15th 2022 of my decision not to extend beyond 2024 — and the letter sent was only meant to confirm what I already told them”.

According to Fabrizio Romano, PSG are determined not to allow the newly appointed France captain to leave as a free agent next year, which means they should be open to a sale this summer if Mbappe stays true to his word.

At the moment, Real Madrid remain strong favourites take advantage of the situation and strengthen their forward line by signing Mbappe after the departure of Karim Benzema.

Liverpool unlikely to move for Kone
Despite recent reports claiming Liverpool had made contact with the representatives of Manu Kone, the Merseysiders aren’t expected to make a move for the Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder.

Arsenal to step up Rice pursuit
West Ham captain Declan Rice is reportedly very open to the idea of joining Arsenal this summer. Personal terms should not be a problem and the Gunners are believed to be stepping up their interest, but West Ham apparently want no less than £100 million to relinquish the services of the 24-year-old England international.

West Ham identify Palhinha as Rice replacement
Meanwhile, the Hammers are believed to preparing for life after Rice, a hero of their Europa Conference League success, and one of the potential replacements they’ve set their eye on is Fulham’s Joao Palhinha.

The 27-year-old Portugal international also had an extremely good 2022/23 season and is reportedly being looked at by several clubs.

Newcastle lead Maddison race
Seeking to build up their strength for the upcoming Champions League campaign, Newcastle are said to be leading the race to sign James Maddison from Leicester City.

The 26-year-old attacking midfielder is about to enter the final 12 months of his contract at the King Power Stadium, and with the Foxes now relegated from the Premier League, they’ll surely look to cash in on such a sellable asset.

Liverpool youngster Ramsay heading for Preston loan
According to a number of reports, Liverpool have decided to send Calvin Ramsay out on loan for the upcoming season.

The 19-year-old right-back played his last game to date back in January (and that for the Under-23 side). Since then, he’s been out of action through a knee injury.

Liverpool feel it’s important for the youngster to play regularly after such a long absence and are keen to secure such a role for him at another club for a year. Therefore, they’ve reached an agreement with Preston North End to send the youngster to the Deepdale Stadium.