Gianluigi Donnarumma’s time in Paris is officially over — and Europe’s elite are circling. According to journalist Alfredo Pedullà, Bayern Munich have been tracking the 26-year-old Italian since January, with Manuel Neuer expected to retire next year. Meanwhile, Manchester City have emerged as frontrunners, driven by Pep Guardiola’s admiration and Erling Haaland’s influence on City’s transfer committee.
From Milan Prodigy to Paris Departure
Signed from AC Milan on a free transfer in summer 2021, Donnarumma’s PSG career has been a rollercoaster. Last season, he conceded 39 goals in 40 matches with 11 clean sheets — respectable numbers, but not enough to silence critics. His Instagram farewell confirmed the split, with heartfelt thanks to fans and teammates, and a swipe at the club’s decision-makers for ending his tenure.
“To the special Parisian supporters… I gave everything… Unfortunately, someone decided I can no longer be part of the team,” Donnarumma wrote, adding that he would “always cherish” the memories.
Why PSG Pulled the Plug
Despite being a Lev Yashin Award nominee, Donnarumma’s €13m annual salary — and his request for €15m — proved too heavy under France’s tax system. PSG faced a choice: extend, sell, or risk losing him for free. His inconsistency in Ligue 1 (just four clean sheets) and limitations with the ball at his feet clashed with Luis Enrique’s tactical demands.
Enrique admitted the decision was “difficult,” calling Donnarumma “one of the best goalkeepers in the world,” but stressed the need for a profile that fit his style. Sporting director Luis Campos moved quickly, sealing the €40m signing of Lucas Chevalier from Lille.
Chevalier: The Heir Apparent
At just 23, Chevalier is already in France’s national team conversation. With a PSxG minus goals allowed of +8.39 — the best in Europe under 23 — he brings composure, distribution, and a big-game mentality. Campos knows him well from Lille and convinced Enrique that he was the future. His €40m fee, potentially rising to €55m with bonuses, places him among the top five most expensive keepers in history.
Transfer Race Heats Up
Manchester City could move for Donnarumma if Ederson departs, possibly to Turkey. Bayern see him as Neuer’s successor. Inter and Manchester United have been linked, but United sources deny interest. PSG are reportedly willing to sell for €25-30m — a relatively modest price for a keeper of his calibre and age.
Betting Angle: Where Will Donnarumma Land?
With two giants pushing for his signature, the transfer market odds could swing dramatically. Expect Bayern Munich and Manchester City to open as betting favourites, with potential value in a late move from Inter given Donnarumma’s Serie A roots. For bettors, timing is key — early market moves could offer better odds before negotiations accelerate.
What’s Next?
PSG face Tottenham in the UEFA Super Cup on August 13 with Chevalier expected to start. Donnarumma, meanwhile, risks sitting out entirely unless a swift transfer is secured. With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers looming, regular playing time will be essential for Italy’s No.1 — wherever he ends up.