As a result, he was forced to train away from the first-team squad, but has since been reintegrated to the staring 11 and handed the captain’s armband by new manager Luis Enrique.

However, that hasn’t stopped the forward being linked with a whole host of European clubs, including Premier League giants Arsenal and Liverpool.

Real Madrid were originally frontrunners to sign the 24-year-old but reportedly put an end to their pursuit earlier this month, citing the extortionate wage demands involved in a deal.

As a result, Arsenal and Liverpool could become genuine contenders for his signature.

But it’s the Gunners who look to have the advantage, according to The Independent, who claim that the Emirates would be Mbappe’s first preference if he were to move to the Premier League.

The report adds that he is is intrigued by Mikel Arteta’s project in north London, which was also key in signing Declan Rice from West Ham over the summer.

42.9KChris Kamara provides health update

Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger was previously keen to sign Mbappe back in 2017 while he was still playing for Monaco, reportedly submitting an £87 million bid for the then-19-year-old.

However, the prospect of joining the likes of Neymar at PSG proved too appealing to the youngster.

“We were in touch in 2017. I’d chosen a different path, and he [Wenger] didn’t hold it against me. He was a gentleman and wished me good luck,” Mbappe said back in 2018.