**Paris Saint-Germain Planning to Sell Five Players for Strategic Reasons Ahead of the Summer Transfer Window**

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is reportedly planning to sell up to five players ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, as part of a broader strategy to restructure their squad and reduce financial burdens. The club, currently under the ownership of the Qatari Investment Authority, is believed to be focusing on streamlining their roster to align with both financial and competitive objectives.

### Key Players on the Radar for Transfer

The first player linked with a potential exit is **Marco Verratti**, the club’s influential midfielder. Verratti, who has been a cornerstone of PSG’s success in recent years, is reportedly attracting interest from several top European clubs, including Barcelona and Manchester United. While PSG values Verratti immensely, his high salary and contract terms (set to expire in 2023) make him a candidate for a deal that could either be extended or terminated.

Next, **Mauro Icardi**, the Argentine striker, is also under consideration for a transfer. Icardi, who has been linked with a move to the Premier League, could be sold to reduce PSG’s wage bill. The striker’s representative has already been in talks with multiple clubs, with Chelsea and Manchester United being the most frequent suitors.

**Kilian Mbappé**, another key asset, is also being monitored. The young French forward has been a star performer since joining PSG in 2018 and is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in the world. However, his contract is set to expire in 2022, and PSG may consider selling him at the right price to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

Additionally, **Edson Cavani** and **Thiago Motta** are also on the list of players whose futures are uncertain. Cavani, whose contract is set to expire in 2020, has been linked with a move to the MLS, while Motta, a veteran midfielder, is likely to be offloaded to make way for younger, cheaper talent.

### Financial and Strategic Motivations

PSG’s decision to sell these players is driven by a combination of financial necessity and strategic planning. The club is reported to be aiming to reduce its wage bill by as much as €100 million ($110 million) by the end of the 2019-20 season. This is partly due to the increased financial regulations in French football, which limit the amount clubs can spend on wages relative to their revenue.

Moreover, PSG’s ownership is believed to be looking to rebuild the squad with a focus on younger, cheaper players who can compete at the highest level for the long term. This approach is seen as a way to create a more sustainable team structure while also appeasing fans who have been critical of the club’s transfer policies in recent seasons.

### Impact on the Squad and Transfer Market

The potential sale of these five players could have a significant impact on PSG’s squad depth and their ability to compete in domestic and European competitions. While the club is still expected to be major players in the transfer market, the departures of key players could create opportunities for younger talents to step into prominent roles.

However, PSG’s ability to replace these stars will be crucial to their success in the upcoming season and beyond. The club is already expected to be active in the transfer market, with rumors circulating about potential moves for players like **Angel Di Maria** and **Cesc Fàbregas**.

### Conclusion

PSG’s decision to sell up to five players this summer is part of a calculated strategy to restructure their squad and align their financial goals with their competitive aspirations. While the departures of key players like Verratti, Icardi, and Mbappé will be tough to swallow, the club’s ownership is confident that this approach will position PSG for long-term success. Whether this strategy pays off will depend on the quality of the replacements and the ability of the current squad to adapt to new faces.