Mbappe and Neymar: Mission impossible

If anyone really is interested in signing either Kylian Mbappe or Neymar from PSG this summer, they're going to have to dig deep into their pockets. This was already known, but now it seems even more apparent. Al-Khelaifi breathed a sigh of reilief today as TAS decided that PSG had done nothing wrong with regard to Financial FairPlay. (FFP)

UEFA made the decision to reopen the case as it could not find the the signings of Neymar and Mbappe in PSG's accounts for the 2017 season. However, only a year after the commencement of the investigation and PSG have been cleared of any wrongdoing. PSG had it all to lose in this aspect, although at no point has it ever been revealed if PSG were indeed over the FFP limits.

Al-Khelaifi, PSG's owner and a member of UEFA's commitee since the end of last February had originally appeared to be preparing for a difficult period for PSG, with a potential transfer ban or fine on the cards. However, UEFA have decided that they want to make a proper stand regarding this issue and have even spoken about banning both PSG and Manchester City from future European involvement if the clubs are found to be guilty. 

The story of Mbappe an Neymar (or both) departing the Parisians is a complicated one. Both players have been repeatedly linked with Real Madrid, and with Zinedine Zidane back at the club, their prospects of joining appeared even more likely. Juventus, who want to 'rearm' their new project, led by Cristiano Ronaldo were one of many clubs interested.

Neymar had his sights on a move to Madrid, and he had originally hoped it would be an easy transition from Paris to Madrid. However, now things become much more complicated. PSG now no longer need to let one of their star assets go and would certainly be asking for big money should one of them leave. 

PSG have invested big money into transforming their club - Neymar was 222 million euros, whilst Mbappe joined for 180 million euros. Over 400 million euros of talent that PSG won't be looking to let go of in a hurry.