By John Essien
Paris Saint-Germain President, Nasser Al-Khelaifi has rubbished claims that Kylian Mbappe’s decision to extend his contract at the club was influenced by money.
Mbappe rejected the chance to join the Spanish giants, penning a new and extremely-lucrative deal at PSG.
Real had hoped to sign the French international on a free transfer, with the player’s previous contract due to expire.
According to Al-Khelaifi, Mbappe had turned down a staggering nine-figure sum from the La Liga champions last summer as he knew the World Cup winner wanted to stay in Paris.
Speaking to Spanish outlet MARCA, he said: “I turned down 180 million [euros] last summer from Real Madrid because I knew Kylian wanted to stay at PSG.
“I know him very well, I know what he and his family want, and they aren’t influenced by money.
“He has chosen to play here for his city, his club and his country, and for the sporting project. He only thinks about playing and winning.”
Mbappe, who scored 39 goals in 46 games across all competitions last season, has renewed his contract with PSG until 2025.
His decision to prolong his PSG career angered both Real Madrid President Florentino Perez and La Liga President Javier Tebas.
