Paris Saint-Germain have dropped Gianluigi Donnarumma from their travelling group for the UEFA Super Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur, a decision framed as technical by manager Luis Enrique but widely read as a signal that the Italian’s time in Paris is at an end.
It’s been widely reported that Donnarumma has refused to extend his contract with the club, and now PSG look to have moved on from their number one.
Chevalier’s Arrival Changes the Hierarchy
The timing isn’t subtle. PSG recently confirmed the arrival of France international goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier from Lille on a long-term deal to 2030, with a reported fee of around €40 million paid. The Ligue 1 and European champions haven’t splashed the cash on a goalkeeper to come in as backup; Chevalier is expected to take the gloves immediately.
Contract Stalemate Points to a Sale
Donnarumma’s contract situation only makes a parting of ways more likely. Talks over an extension have stalled; multiple reports in recent weeks noted the Italian’s hesitance to renew on the terms offered, and that the club would rather sell than see Donnarumma leave for free next summer.
Why Manchester United Are in the Conversation
Manchester United’s current goalkeeping situation is the primary reason why Donnarumma is being linked with a switch to Old Trafford. Andre Onana has pulled off remarkable saves at times, but he’s also made high-profile mistakes that have proven costly. And when a world-class option like Donnarumma becomes available, likely at a fair price due to PSG’s intention to sell and the Champions League winner having just twelve months remaining on his contract, a club like Manchester United has to take a look.
From a tactical standpoint, Donnarumma would offer an immediate and significant upgrade on Onana. He’s superb at commanding his penalty box and is an excellent shot stopper. And at 26 years old, he could be the club’s number one for years to come.
The Market Whispers
Speculation is already rife about Donnarumma and Manchester United, with the latest football betting oddssuggesting Old Trafford is a likely destination for Italy’s first-choice keeper. Respected football journalist Fabrizio Romano, who continues to cover the Donnarumma story, has also indicated that the next stop for Donnarumma will be the Premier League if the player gets his wish. However, it will depend on how PSG play it when looking to make a move happen.
What Would it Take?
PSG appear to have taken a pragmatic stance. With Chevalier installed and a Super Cup without Donnarumma, a sale this month fits the pattern of how the club refreshes key roles decisively. A reported valuation of €40 million feels plausible given contract length. However, the United hierarchy may have to deviate from their plans to limit spending, but this is one of the best goalkeepers in the world we’re talking about, and they rarely become available at this price.
Verdict
A manager leaving a player out of the squad before a showcase fixture, a new No. 1 arriving, and stalled contract talks all point the same way. Combine that with United’s need for a world-class goalkeeper for a favourable fee, and the Donnarumma-to-United idea moves from another typical rumour to a credible scenario. If the numbers make sense for all parties, it could very well happen.
Author
