Manchester City are closing in on a deal to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain for around £30 million (€35 million), with the transfer expected to clear the path for Ederson to move to Fenerbahce for about £12.1 million (€14 million).
Donnarumma has been deemed surplus to requirements by PSG manager Luis Enrique, who has brought in Lucas Chevalier to push for the first-choice spot at the European champions. The Italy stopper is anticipated to become Pep Guardiola’s new No 1 at City, adding fresh competition for Ederson, who has been City’s first-choice keeper since 2017.
City have already added James Trafford from Burnley for roughly £27 million this summer, a move that briefly unsettled Ederson but did not convince Guardiola to rely on Trafford as his number one. Donnarumma’s arrival would give City a high-caliber alternative and a clear path to strengthening the goalkeeping department.
In total, Donnarumma would be City’s fifth major acquisition of the transfer window, following Trafford, Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki and Rayan Aït-Nouri. The recruitment drive under Guardiola continues to reshape the squad as City chase continued domestic success and sustained European competitiveness.
Ederson, 32, has been City’s undisputed No 1 since joining from Benfica in 2017, winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, a Champions League, a Uefa Super Cup and a Club World Cup. He was a pivotal figure in City’s treble-winning campaign in 2022-23 and remains a central pillar of Guardiola’s plans.
Meanwhile, Manuel Akanji has joined Inter on a season-long loan from City for a €2 million fee, with an option to buy set at €15 million. The Swiss defender’s move continues City’s policy of refreshing their squad depth through loan deals with potential extensions.
Kalvin Phillips, who underwent Achilles surgery in late May, was unable to secure a transfer before the window shut. The 29-year-old midfielder, who cost City £45 million in 2022, has made only 16 Premier League appearances for the club and spent last season on loan at Ipswich.
What this means for City
– A potential starting goalkeeper competition could shape City’s backline dynamics for the season ahead, with Donnarumma considered a strong contender for the No 1 jersey.
– The club’s heavy investment in midfield and attack alongside a revamped defense signals Guardiola’s plan to maintain elite performance on multiple fronts.
– Ederson’s possible move to Fenerbahce would mark a new chapter in his impressive City career, while Donnarumma’s arrival would ensure continued high-level goalkeeping options.
Summary
City are building a star-studded squad through a series of high-profile signings, aiming to preserve their status among Europe’s elite while replenishing positions that could influence both domestic and European campaigns in the coming seasons. The Donnarumma deal, if completed, would add a world-class keeper to Guardiola’s arsenal and maintain City’s reputation for shoring up key areas with top talent.
If you’d like, I can add a brief explainer of how Donnarumma’s playing style might fit Guardiola’s system and the potential tactical implications for City this season.