The Premier League’s goalkeeping market has been ablaze this summer, with several clubs scrambling to strengthen their options between the sticks.
Manchester United were widely reported to have scouted elite talent across Europe, looking for a figure capable of commanding the penalty area and providing long-term stability.
Chelsea, Liverpool, and PSG were all rumoured to have been involved in discussions with some of the continent’s top shot-stoppers, while scouts were seen attending matches across Serie A and Ligue 1.
The final week of the transfer window saw frantic negotiations and speculation around the next big move, with clubs aware that a single signing could define their season.
Amid this backdrop, Manchester City have stolen a march on their rivals by confirming, via their website, the signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain, pending international clearance.
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The 26-year-old Italian goalkeeper has signed a five-year contract, keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until 2030.
Gianluigi Donnarumma, standing at 6ft 5ins, arrives at City with a wealth of elite-level experience and a reputation as one of Europe’s finest goalkeepers.
He began his professional career at AC Milan, making over 250 appearances and helping the club lift the 2016 Italian Super Coppa.
In 2021, Donnarumma moved to PSG, where he made an immediate impact, helping the French giants to four Ligue 1 titles, two Coupe de France victories, and three Trophee des Champions crowns.
His stay in Paris was capped off this year when he helped PSG secure their first-ever UEFA Champions League title with a 5-0 win over Internazionale.
On the international stage, he famously kept Italy alive in the Euro 2020 final, saving crucial penalties against England at Wembley and earning Player of the Tournament honours.
“To have signed for Manchester City is such a special and proud moment for me,” Donnarumma said.
“I am joining a squad packed with world-class talent and a team led by one of the greatest managers in the history of football in Pep Guardiola.
“I cannot wait to meet my new teammates, the staff, and the fans. Playing at the Etihad Stadium will be very, very special for me.
“I am very excited for what lies ahead and can promise that I will give absolutely everything to try and help the Club achieve even more success.”
While City have secured a goalkeeper of the highest calibre, United fans will rue missing out on Donnarumma this summer, with the Italian widely linked to Old Trafford before the deal with PSG’s star stopper was finalised.
