Kylian Mbappe signals willingness for PSG contract renewal amid potential Neymar exit

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) Kylian Mbappe has stepped back onto the training field with the first-team squad, indicating his openness to extend his contract. The latest reports from Footmercato suggest that this change of heart is influenced by the prospect of Neymar's departure and the arrival of Mbappe's close companion Ousmane Dembele at Parc des Princes.

Recent developments in Mbappe's saga seem to be veering toward a new trajectory. Having previously stayed fit with PSG's «undesirable» players, the star forward returned to training sessions. Notably, he joined Dembele in the stands during PSG's Ligue 1 season opener—a 0-0 draw against Lorient.

Dembele, having freshly sealed a €50 million ($55 million) move from FC Barcelona to PSG, awaited his debut in the PSG jersey. In contrast, Mbappe's situation remained more complex. His contract standoff, resulting from his hesitance to renew his deal inked in spring 2022, had frozen him out of the squad. Mbappe's existing contract, valid until June 30, 2024, with an optional extra year, presented a potential dilemma. His possible free transfer to Real Madrid after this season hung in the balance.

At a crossroads, Mbappe sent a letter to PSG, expressing his intent not to renew. This ultimatum was met with a counteroffer from the club: commit or be transferred this summer. The transfer seemed imminent, with interests from multiple quarters including a staggering €300 million ($329 million) bid from Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Hilal, as well as Premier League and Spanish giants. Initially, Mbappe seemed prepared to sit out