Gianluigi Donnarumma Unsettled as PSG Close in on €40m Goalkeeper Signing

Manchester United and Chelsea on Alert as Italian Faces Losing No.1 Spot

Paris Saint-Germain’s goalkeeping situation is set for a dramatic shake-up after reports in France confirmed the club had agreed a €40 million deal to sign Lille’s rising star Lucas Chevalier. The move, first revealed by RMC Sport, has left current No.1 Gianluigi Donnarumma far from pleased, with the Italian now facing the prospect of losing his starting role under Luis Enrique.

For Donnarumma—who was instrumental in PSG’s run to Champions League glory last season—the news comes as a bitter blow. At 26 and still under contract until 2026, the Euro 2020 winner likely expected to remain an undisputed starter in Paris for years to come. Instead, he now finds himself in the middle of an unexpected power shift in the PSG dressing room.

From Hero to Uncertainty

Donnarumma’s contribution to PSG’s European triumph was significant. His reflex saves and composure under pressure played a huge role in the club’s knockout-stage successes. But while his shot-stopping has rarely been in doubt, questions over his decision-making and distribution have persisted—issues Luis Enrique is thought to be keen to address.

Chevalier, 23, is regarded as one of France’s brightest young goalkeeping talents, with a commanding presence and a comfort on the ball that fits perfectly into Enrique’s preferred style. According to reports, the PSG boss intends for Chevalier to start the Ligue 1 season as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, a decision that would immediately demote Donnarumma to the bench.

Premier League Giants Ready to Pounce

Should Donnarumma become available, there will be no shortage of suitors. Both Manchester United and Chelsea are actively seeking upgrades in goal, with neither Andre Onana nor Robert Sánchez delivering the consistency required at the highest level.

For United, this could be an opportunity to secure a proven, world-class goalkeeper without the uncertainty of gambling on a lesser-tested option. Donnarumma’s commanding frame, international pedigree, and big-game mentality would represent a significant improvement over their current situation. Chelsea, meanwhile, are also expected to keep a close watch, particularly given their ongoing rebuild under Enzo Maresca.

No club-to-club talks have yet been reported, but PSG’s position is clear: if they are to sell, they will demand a premium fee this summer to avoid the risk of losing Donnarumma for free in 2026.

United’s Goalkeeping Woes Continue

Manchester United FC v Wolverhampton Wanderers FC – Premier League Donnarumma

For Manchester United, the hunt for a new No.1 has been frustrating. Attempts to land Botafogo’s John Victor and Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez have both fallen flat, while Onana’s inconsistent form and high-profile errors have added urgency to the search.

The goalkeeping situation is not their only headache—on August 2, reports claimed that key striker target Benjamin Šeško had chosen Newcastle over Old Trafford, adding further frustration to United’s transfer window.

A move for Donnarumma would, at the very least, give the club a marquee signing in a position they desperately need to strengthen.

Will Donnarumma Push for a Move?

At this stage, it remains unclear whether Donnarumma will agitate for a transfer or choose to stay and fight for his place. Publicly, the goalkeeper has not commented on the Chevalier deal, but RMC Sport’s reporting suggests his discontent is genuine.

The decision could hinge on how quickly Chevalier is integrated into PSG’s starting XI. If the Frenchman begins the season as the undisputed No.1, Donnarumma may have little choice but to seek an exit before the transfer window closes.

PSG’s Perspective

From PSG’s standpoint, the move for Chevalier is part of a broader push to rejuvenate the squad and ensure depth in key positions. Luis Enrique is determined to build a team capable of dominating both domestically and in Europe, with competition for every role seen as essential.

While signing Chevalier may initially create tension, it also gives PSG two elite goalkeeping options—a luxury few clubs can boast. In a long season with multiple competitions, such depth could prove invaluable.

Late-Window Drama Likely

Chelsea FC v Paris Saint-Germain: Final – FIFA Club World Cup 2025

With just weeks left in the summer transfer window, the Donnarumma situation is shaping up to be one of the stories to watch. Manchester United and Chelsea will be monitoring developments closely, knowing a rare opportunity could fall into their laps.

For Donnarumma, the next step in his career could depend entirely on whether he is willing to accept a supporting role in Paris—or if his ambition drives him towards a fresh challenge elsewhere.

Final Word

Gianluigi Donnarumma’s future at PSG, once seemingly secure, is now clouded in uncertainty. The impending arrival of Lucas Chevalier threatens to redefine the pecking order at the Parc des Princes, and Europe’s elite clubs are watching with interest.

If Luis Enrique follows through on his plan to start Chevalier from day one, the Italian could quickly find himself at the centre of a high-profile transfer scramble. For Manchester United and Chelsea, the chance to sign one of the world’s top goalkeepers may not come again soon—and they will be ready to move if the opportunity arises.