However, according to his agent, only four clubs in world football possess the type of spending power capable of prizing him away from Ligue 1 giants.

Predictably, they are; Manchester United, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona. Let the race begin. (L’Equipe, via Daily Star

Rating: 5/10

Sport360 Verdict: Given Mbappe is still only 18, he’s unlikely to enjoy the same amount of first-term action at one of the European giants as he does at Monaco. Another year in Ligue 1 probably suits his development more, but then, money talks so the attraction of moving onto bigger things may turn his head.

James Rodriguez

While Real Madrid are being linked with a number of incoming signatures when the transfer window opens up, there remains persistent rumours that James Rodriguez could be heading for the exit.

The 25-year-old, who scored in Real’s 6-2 demolition of Deportivo last night, has been resigned to a bit-part role this season and according to reports in Spain he has an agreement with his agent Jorge Mendes to ensure he signs for Manchester United this summer. (Diaro Gol via Daily Express)

Rating: 7/10

Sport360 Verdict: Mendes and United have a close relationship. After all, boss Jose Mourinho is looked after by the Portuguese superagent so this rumour could have some legs. James has only started 10 La Liga games this season and the desire for more first-team action could see him join the Red half of Manchester.

Willian

If a deal for James fails to materialise then options elsewhere could present themselves for United. One of them is Chelsea midfielder Willian.

Undoubtedly, there will be another big-spending rebuild at Old Trafford this season and the 28-year-old Brazilian is an archetypal Mourinho player.

Again, he’s another who has struggled to retain a regular spot in the first team having had just 13 Premier League starts this season.

But his pace, work ethic and goal threat would add an extra dimension to United’s attack. (ESPN

Rating: 6/10

Sport360 Verdict: Although his game time is not what a player of his calibre deserves, he is still an important lieutenant for Antonio Conte and it’s difficult to see the Italian wanting to see Willian leaving to a rival. But then, it could be out of his hands entirely given the exploits of his consistent XI this season.

Kalidou Koulibaly

We move to Italy and Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has claimed he stopped Chelsea’s pursuit of highly-rated defender Kalidou Koulibaly last summer.

The Serie A side rejected a €55 million (Dh220m) bid because De Laurentiis could not find suitable reinforcements.

That’s not likely to deter the soon-to-be crowned Premier League champions this summer who are rumoured to still be interested in the 25-year-old. (beIN Sports)

Rating: 4/10

Sport360 Verdict: Chelsea opted to buy David Luiz back from Paris Saint-Germain when their bid failed for Koulibaly so it’s difficult to see where the appetite is to chase his signature.

What else is going on…

So Alexis Sanchez was hurt after all, eh?

And just in case you wondered where he got the swollen lip…

Barcelona defender Javier Mascherano on his FIRST goal for the club last night