French teenager Kylian Mbappe was once again the centre of attention as Monaco clinched their first league title in 17 years on Wednesday, taking his tally to 15 goals for the season to add further fuel to speculation of a possible departure.
Mbappe, 18, is the youngest player in the top five European leagues to reach 14 league goals in the 21st century. He has been linked by European media with possible moves to Juventus, Barcelona or Real Madrid.
However, Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyiev is hoping Mbappe, who is also the first player to score in each of his first four knockout games in the Uefa Champions League, would stay at least one more season.
“Our intention is that he stays, we are going to do everything we can so that he can stay with us,” the Russian said.
“I have not discussed with any club, because what the player wants is the priority.”
French media have reported that Mbappe is keen to stay at the club for another season.
The forward became a regular starter in October when Argentine striker Guido Carrillo sustained an injury and since then there has been no stopping him.
“He reminds me of Neymar at a young age,” said Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema of his compatriot.
Mbappe’s pace, technical ability and composure make him one of the most feared strikers in Europe.
To put his impact in context, at the same age, Arsenal great Thierry Henry scored three goals in the French top flight during the 1995/96 season with Monaco.
“He reminds me of Thierry Henry,” said Argentine striker Delio Onnis, Monaco’s record scorer with 223 goals between 1973-80.
On Wednesday, Mbappe was in devastating form again, beating St Etienne keeper Stephane Ruffier with a deft feint to put the hosts ahead in a 2-0 win at Louis-II stadium.
* Reuters
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