Gianluigi Donnarumma in action for PSG in the club World Cup - wanted by Manchester City in 2025.

Manchester City in ‘Close and direct talks’ with PSG for Donnarumma as Ederson exit looms

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Aug 20, 2025, 9:46 am
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Image: IMAGO / Brazil Photo Press

Manchester City are in advanced talks with Paris Saint-Germain to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma, with Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà reporting that “close and direct” negotiations have been ongoing for the past 48 hours. Both clubs are understood to want an agreement, with City viewing the Italy No.1 as the headline addition in a summer that has already seen James Trafford arrive from Burnley. The Manchester City Donnarumma transfer is seen as a pivotal moment for the club.

The ongoing negotiations are critical, as the Manchester City Donnarumma transfer could reshape the team's dynamics.

Donnarumma’s relationship with PSG manager Luis Enrique has soured, despite the goalkeeper’s pivotal role in last season’s Champions League triumph. City, who lost the Premier League crown to Liverpool last term, see the 26-year-old as part of a wider squad reset.

Earlier this week, journalist Ciro Venerato revealed that City had already agreed personal terms with Donnarumma. The challenge now is bridging the gap with PSG, who are holding out for a fee of between €45m and €50m.

Why City Want Donnarumma Despite Trafford Arrival

Manchester City have already added James Trafford to their squad, paying Burnley £20m for the 22-year-old this summer. But Trafford is still seen as one for the future, potentially learning under Pep Guardiola’s guidance and competing in domestic cups.

Donnarumma, by contrast, is targeted as an immediate No.1 option if Ederson leaves. The Italian’s Champions League pedigree, physical presence and reputation as a world-class shot-stopper make him a natural fit for a team still hungry to compete with Liverpool at the summit of English football.

City know they cannot afford uncertainty in goal if Ederson departs for Galatasaray, where talks remain ongoing. Bringing in both Donnarumma and Trafford would secure the position short and long term.

PSG’s Stance and the Price Tag

PSG have made clear they want €45m–€50m for Donnarumma. Manchester City, while reluctant to pay at the top end of that range, are confident of finding middle ground given both clubs’ willingness to deal.

A breakthrough may hinge on Ederson. If Galatasaray match City’s asking price for the Brazilian, Guardiola’s side will have the financial leeway to accelerate negotiations with PSG. Until then, progress is cautious but steady.

Player Quote Section

Pedullà summarised the mood after 48 hours of talks:

“Manchester City and PSG have been in close and direct talks for the last 48 hours. Both clubs want to find an agreement for Donnarumma.” — Alfredo Pedullà

It is the clearest sign yet that Donnarumma could be the next marquee arrival at the Etihad.

Gianluigi Donnarumma – 2024/25 Season Stats

Stat (2024/25) Donnarumma
Appearances 46
Clean Sheets 21
Goals Conceded 37
Saves Made 131
Pass Accuracy 83%

source: footystats.org – 20 August 2025

Donnarumma ranked among the top-performing keepers in Europe last season, producing 131 saves and keeping 21 clean sheets across competitions.

Analyst Verdict

This move represents a statement of intent. City, having ceded the league title to Liverpool, know marginal gains could decide next season’s race. Donnarumma brings Champions League-winning pedigree, height, and authority in the box — qualities Guardiola has sometimes lacked with Ederson’s more expansive but riskier style.

Our personal observation: pairing Donnarumma’s presence with Trafford’s potential would give City a strong succession plan. Trafford can grow without the pressure of being the first-choice immediately, while Guardiola gets a ready-made elite goalkeeper to push Liverpool all the way in 2025/26.

Key Insights

  • City in 48 hours of “close and direct talks” with PSG.
  • PSG want €45–€50m; compromise expected.
  • Ederson exit to Galatasaray could fund the deal.
  • Donnarumma agreed personal terms earlier this week.
  • James Trafford already signed from Burnley, seen as future No.1.

What’s Next

Talks will continue through the week. If Galatasaray improve their bid for Ederson, City are expected to accelerate negotiations and attempt to close the Donnarumma deal swiftly. Guardiola wants clarity on his goalkeeper department before the Champions League play-off round.

For PSG, the decision may rest on Enrique’s stance. If relations with Donnarumma remain strained, cashing in now could help finance reinforcements elsewhere. But they will not sell cheap.

Should City commit €50m to Donnarumma — or back Trafford as their long-term No.1 from day one?

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