• Mbappe linked to Madrid
• Van Nistelrooy backs the Frenchman to succeed in Spain
• Believes Madrid can dominate with Mbappe's inclusion

WHAT HAPPENED?

Mbappe's wait for the coveted Champions League trophy grows longer after Paris Saint-Germain succumbed in the Champions League semifinal to bow out before underdogs Borussia Dortmund. After the unceremonious exit from Europe, transfer talks regarding his potential move to Real Madrid have further intensified.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Van Nistelrooy, who donned the Real Madrid jersey in the mid-2000s, is hopeful that Mbappe will finally make the move to the Spanish capital after a couple of failed attempts. The Dutch legend feels that the explosive forward should jump ship from PSG to join Los Blancos as it would significantly increase his chances of winning the Ballon d'Or.

WHAT VAN NISTELROOY SAID

In an interview with AS, Van Nistelrooy said: "Kylian is a very intelligent player and boy and I am sure that he thinks that to improve in his career, because he is still very young, and win the Ballon d'Or he should play for Madrid."

Mbappe's potential position has been hotly debated as Vinicius Jr. occupies the left wing at Madrid - which is Mbappe's preferred slot as well- while Rodrygo operates on the right. However, Van Nistelrooy is optimistic that Carlo Ancelotti will introduce a fluid system where all three forwards will have the license to roam freely with Jude Bellingham in a bit withdrawn role.

"Of course they are compatible," Van Nistelrroy asserted. "Who plays as '9' will vary in the games, because Ancelotti gives the players a lot of freedom in attack, and sometimes Mbappe and sometimes Vinicius will start in that position, as has happened this year, even Rodrygo. The speed of that trident, with Bellingham behind, is going to be unstoppable. With them, Madrid can mark an era."

WHAT NEXT?

Mbappe could reportedly be presented as a Real Madrid player after the Champions League final but before the forward flies to Germany for Euro 2024. Before bidding adieu to PSG, he can potentially win a domestic double by bagging Ligue 1 and the French Cup, respectively. Meanwhile, Madrid have already been crowned champions of Spain and will now aim for European glory with a titanic semi-final clash against Bayern Munich scheduled on Wednesday evening at the Santiago Bernabeu.