It seems that Monaco has become the new breeding ground for high-profile youngsters as Arsenal seem to be interested in 17-year-old sensation Kylian Mbappe. The player has made eight Ligue 1 appearances and has scored thrice and set up 4 goals as well.
Mbappe has already broken Thierry Henry’s records
Mbappe has already been subject to comparisons with Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, two of whose records, he has already broken in his time at Monaco. Despite being a player that was apparently even on the Los Blancos’ radar, Mbappe refused to leave his roots. And this decision paid off when he broke Thierry Henry’s record of being the youngest ever debutant for Monaco when he started their match against Caen at the age of 16 years and 347 days.
After Mbappe’s father claimed that the player hasn’t been treated well at Monaco, his transfer looks all the more imminent and clubs will be eager to get the signing done as soon as possible.
Also read: Arsene Wenger wants Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to stay at Arsenal and sign a new contract
Wenger’s track record will play a role
The Gunners will surely hold an edge in the youngster’s mind considering Arsene Wenger’s track record when it comes to developing young players, especially French players. At the moment, no under 18 player even comes remotely close to the exposure Mbappe has at the top level and his experience will surely push up his price even more.
The 17-year-old is pacy, direct and extremely skilful for his age. One look at his gameplay and there is no doubt as to why the youngster has been likened to Henry. The winger has the ability to cut inside and he can also play as a second striker.
His statistics show that he has quite an eye for goal and his direct gameplay is a major factor in this. Mbappe much like Henry, possesses a brilliant change of pace and can outfox defenders with his trickery and speed.
A move in January looks unlikely
The European elite have been keeping an eye on the youngster and as time goes on his price will only go higher. If Arsenal are keen on signing the player they will definitely face a lot of competition as several Premier League clubs have already shown interest in the youngster.
However, Arsene Wenger has also said that according to him there is no value in the market right now, so a transfer looks unlikely in the January window.
