Real Madrid Transfer News: Kylian Mbappe Plans Reported Amid Fresh Rumours

Monaco star Kylian Mbappe reportedly has his sights set on joining either Real Madrid or Barcelona before he is 22, but he may opt to switch to a "stepping-stone club" first.

According to Le Parisien (via The Independent's Luke Brown), a source revealed that the 18-year-old has long-term aims to play for one of the Spanish giants, but he could consider moving elsewhere beforehand:

"Kylian is currently thinking things over. Either he will go to a stepping-stone club, or directly to a great club. But his aim is very clear: to sign for one of the two biggest clubs in the world, they are Real Madrid or Barcelona for him, before reaching the age of 22."

An additional source in Le Parisien (via Brown) said Arsenal is a potentially attractive destination as a short-term option for Mbappe, as he would be eager to work under manager Arsene Wenger.

But his ultimate goal remains moving to Real or Barca, so a fierce transfer battle between the two clubs could be in the offing.

Real have been heavily linked with Mbappe since the start of the summer. Marca (via Get French Football News) recently said the young France international is desperate to play at the Santiago Bernabeu:

It would seem most beneficial for Real to snap him up now as his situation could change over the next few seasons, especially if he moves to another club.

Shelling out huge money on him could be a slight risk for Real, though, as he has only proved himself over one season in his fledgling career. 

But it was a stunning campaign from Mbappe in 2016-17. The rising star played a key part in Monaco's Ligue 1 triumph, as well as their march to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, per Squawka:

Thanks to the Frenchman's rapid rise to prominence and fine form last season, rumours have abounded surrounding where he may end up, and it has even been suggested Monaco want €130 million (£114.5 million) for him, per OK Diario (via Sport). 

Real are one of the few clubs who could break the bank to sign him up and, should Mbappe make good on his immense potential, he could end up being worth the money.