Gianluigi Donnarumma Dumped by PSG, Choose City or United?

Gianluigi Donnarumma has become one of the hottest names in the 2025 summer transfer market. The Italy national team goalkeeper has officially been dropped from Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) first team after the club decided not to extend his contract, which is set to expire at the end of the 2025–2026 season. This situation has Donnarumma looking for a new destination, with the Premier League appearing to be his primary target. Several English clubs are already on the radar, including Manchester United and Manchester City. However, his transfer journey is far from straightforward, as there are dynamics making the move more complicated than just negotiating a price.

United as the First Choice, but Many Obstacles

Manchester United initially emerged as Donnarumma’s preferred destination. The 26-year-old goalkeeper was reportedly interested in playing at Old Trafford and had even considered an early offer from United. However, the chances of this transfer happening are slim for two main reasons: United’s absence from European competition next season and the club’s financial issues.
To sign Donnarumma, United would need to sell star players like Jadon Sancho or Alejandro Garnacho to free up wage slots and raise transfer funds. This move carries risk, considering Garnacho and Sancho remain integral to Erik ten Hag’s long-term project. If the deal falls through, United will likely continue relying on André Onana as their main goalkeeper. Onana had an inconsistent season last year, but the club believes he can bounce back if given full trust.

City Waiting on the Ederson Domino Effect

Meanwhile, Manchester City has emerged as a strong contender to land Donnarumma. Recent reports suggest the goalkeeper is leaning towards the Etihad Stadium, but the transfer depends on Ederson’s sale. The Brazilian goalkeeper has been linked with Galatasaray, and his departure would clear the way for Donnarumma’s arrival.
PSG is valuing Donnarumma between €20 million and €50 million. City is expected to negotiate this fee, considering the goalkeeper only has one year left on his contract. This situation gives City the opportunity to secure a world-class goalkeeper at a price more affordable than the current market value.
If the move materializes, Donnarumma would be City’s long-term successor between the posts. Pep Guardiola is believed to want a goalkeeper with Donnarumma’s stature and reflexes, qualities that could provide an edge in big matches.

PSG’s Squad Regeneration Strategy

PSG’s decision to part ways with Donnarumma is not without reason. The Parisian club is currently implementing a squad regeneration strategy, focusing on young players with growth potential. They want to avoid being tied to long-term contracts with high wages that could burden their financial structure.
PSG also has both internal and external options to replace Donnarumma. Internally, there is young goalkeeper Arnau Tenas, who has begun to show promise. On the transfer market, names like Mike Maignan (AC Milan) and Diogo Costa (Porto) are on their radar.
This move reflects a broader trend among top European clubs to be more cautious in their spending, prioritizing financial balance and maintaining contract flexibility.

The Gianluigi Donnarumma transfer saga of summer 2025 is far from over. Although Manchester United was once the favorite, financial constraints and their absence from European competition have greatly reduced the likelihood of the move. Manchester City now leads the race, but Ederson’s transfer must happen first before Donnarumma can officially join.
With a negotiable price tag and a contract nearing its end, Donnarumma’s move could become one of the most intriguing deals of this year’s transfer market. All eyes are now on City and PSG’s next moves in the coming weeks.