Paris Saint-Germain has signed striker Mauro Icardi to a four-year deal to stay in the French capital. Icardi initially joined PSG on a loan last September, arriving from Inter Milan. Icardi found himself in Paris after an ugly falling out with Inter Milan, which included Icardi being stripped of his team captaincy duty.
Icardi needed a fresh start. Since he arrived in Paris, in 31 appearances, Icardi has scored 20 goals and has provided two assists. Five of Icardi’s goals came in Champions League play. His performance has simply impressed PSG officials enough for them to sign him to a permanent deal. Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan agreed to a fee of €50 million, including €7 million in add-ons.
Is this a good move for PSG?
Yes, it is a great move. Icardi is playing well and is very content with the club. Icardi’s talent and skills spark momentum for PSG’s offensive attack. Icardi alongside Kylian Mbappe and Neymar gives PSG a respectable and effective attack capable of scoring goals.
Ligue 1 play is set to resume on June 17, although there is still no word on when the Champions League is to continue. PSG is one of eight clubs that will participate in the quarterfinals of this season’s Champions League tournament.
What does this mean for Edinson Cavani?
Cavani, who is PSG’s all-time leading scorer with 200 goals, has been linked to a potential transfer for many months now. Cavani joined PSG in the summer of 2013. He came from Napoli for a fee of £55 million, which at the time was the most expensive transfer in the history of French Football. His tenure in Paris has certainly been successful.
The signing of Icardi to a four-year deal could very well mean that Cavani’s time in PSG is coming to an end. Cavani’s contract is due to expire on June 30. At this point, it would be in the interest of both Cavani and PSG for the two to part ways. With PSG intending to use younger talent in the attack, the 33-year-old veteran striker should play elsewhere. With his contract expiring soon, any club that chooses to sign him during free agency will be able to do so without having to pay a transfer fee.
Chelsea is reportedly interested in signing Cavani. Atletico Madrid placed a €10 million bid to acquire Cavani, but PSG rejected the offer. Cavani has also been linked to Manchester United and Newcastle United. There’s plenty of options on the table for him going forward.
