With 23 goals in all competitions for AS Monaco, Kylian Mbappe has become one of Europe's top young talents. And at just 18 years old, the striker has already featured for the French national team. Undoubtedly, Mbappe's breakthrough season has been a massive success, and he's become one of the most sought after players in Europe. Numerous high-profile clubs, such as Manchester United and Chelsea, have already been linked with the French sensation. The Gunners are also understood to be keen on signing the youngster, and club legend Robert Pires has now had his say on a potential move for Mbappe.
Arsenal will sign Mbappe, says Robert Pires
Robert Pires was, of course, an integral player in Arsene Wenger's Invincibles side, who managed to go an entire season unbeaten in the Premier League back in 2004. Today, the Frenchman is a very popular figure at the Emirates and has garnered a legendary status among fans of the North London club. Furthermore, Pires has often been seen training with the current Arsenal squad and, as such, has some valuable insights on his former club. In an interview with bwin, Pires revealed that he believes Arsenal will get their hands on Kylian Mbappe in the summer. "I do think Arsenal will sign him. The problem is how much. Mbappe has the potential to play for Arsenal and Wenger is the right manager to manage him," said Pires.
He further claimed that Mbappe is "the best striker in Europe at the moment." However, Pires rejected comparisons of the 18-year-old to his former teammate Thierry Henry. While acknowledging the similarities between the two players, Pires insisted that Mbappe is "not ready to be compared to Thierry [Henry]."
Arsene Wenger confirms interest in Mbappe
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has recently confirmed the club's interest in Mbappe.
In his 21 years at Arsenal, Wenger has garnered a reputation for cultivating young talents, such as Thierry Henry and Cesc Fabregas, who went on to have very successful careers in football. In recent years, the 67-year-old has, however, fallen out of favour with the Arsenal fanbase, with many calling for him to leave. The Gunners have had a woeful season and are set to miss out on a top 4 spot for the first time under Wenger's reign.
Wenger, who looks increasingly likely to sign an extension at the end of the season, is now believed to be keen on reinforcing his squad by bringing new players to Arsenal at the end of this season. Speaking to SFR Sport, Wenger admitted that he's been monitoring Mbappe's situation. "It would be hypocritical and a lie to say we're not following [Mbappe]. But he's perhaps already in the category of clubs that have more financial power than us," said Wenger. With the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City believed to be keen, Arsenal will certainly face some tough competition for the youngster this summer.
