Manchester City look set to pull off one of the most eye-catching moves of the summer, with Gianluigi Donnarumma reportedly agreeing personal terms ahead of a blockbuster switch from Paris Saint-Germain.
The 26-year-old Italy international, long hailed as one of the finest goalkeepers in world football, has been frozen out at PSG. French reports claim Donnarumma was informed he would no longer be first choice after the arrival of £48 million signing Lucas Chevalier from Lille, and has since been sidelined from training.
Despite playing a pivotal role in last season’s campaign, the former AC Milan star has been told to find a new club before the window shuts. His emotional farewell with PSG’s ultras at the Parc des Princes on Friday night all but confirmed that his time in Paris is over.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Donnarumma has reached a full agreement with City on personal terms. Talks between the two clubs continue, with PSG expected to accept a fee below their initial £43.3m (€50m) valuation.
However, the deal hinges on the future of current No.1 Ederson, who is attracting strong interest from Galatasaray. The Brazilian’s uncertain status was underlined on Saturday when he was left on the bench for the 2-0 defeat to Tottenham, with summer signing James Trafford starting in his place.
Trafford, who impressed on his debut against Wolves, endured a far tougher afternoon at Spurs and was culpable for the second goal. Pep Guardiola, speaking ahead of the match, offered little clarity on the goalkeeping hierarchy.
“We’ll see tomorrow, we’ll see who trains good,” the City boss said. “We’ll talk with Xabi [Mancisidor] and decide. New players always bring energy.”
If completed, Donnarumma’s move to the Etihad would represent a major statement from the champions and give Guardiola another world-class option between the sticks. For PSG, meanwhile, it marks the end of an uneasy marriage with a goalkeeper who never fully settled in Paris despite his undeniable talent.
READ MORE FOOTBALL TRANSFER NEWS:
- Chelsea Ramp Up Negotiations for Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho as Player Declines Other Offers
- Liverpool Set to Launch £78m Bid for Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Following Isak Setback