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Barcelona: Laporta reacts to Dembele-PSG links

Joan Laporta at Barcelona
© Ace Football
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The Frenchman has emerged as a candidate to replace Kylian Mbappe at PSG.

Ousmane Dembele wants to stay at Barcelona despite interest from Paris Saint-Germain, according to Joan Laporta.

Kylian Mbappe’s potential departure from PSG has intensified rumours about his successor in recent weeks. Last week, a report from Foot Mercato named Dembele as PSG’s main target to replace the 24-year-old.

However, Laporta claims Dembele is not keen to switch clubs ahead of the next season.

“PSG want Ousmane Dembélé if Mbappé leaves? I heard this story also one year ago… but it didn’t happen,” the Barcelona president said on Wednesday.

“Dembélé wants to stay at Barça and I think he’s not pushing to go anywhere.”

The prospect of activating Dembele’s €50m release clause could appeal to PSG as it would spare them negotiations with the Catalan side. But the French giants must clarify Mbappe’s situation before completing a potential move for the Barcelona winger. 

Mbappe has already informed the club about his decision not to extend his deal beyond the upcoming season. However, Real Madrid, Mbappe’s main suitors, are yet to make a formal offer for him this summer. 

Widespread reports in French media claim PSG are reportedly demanding €200m for their star striker. But Real Madrid are unlikely to pay such a fee for a player that’s only a year away from running down his current deal.

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