Quick Read
- PSG has excluded Gianluigi Donnarumma from the UEFA Super Cup squad, citing stalled contract talks.
- The Italian goalkeeper is reportedly being pursued by Manchester United and Chelsea.
- PSG is prepared to sell Donnarumma for a reduced fee to avoid losing him for free in 2026.
- Donnarumma’s camp has criticized the decision, emphasizing his contributions to PSG’s success.
- The move signals a broader strategic shift at PSG under coach Luis Enrique.
Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has found himself at the center of a turbulent summer transfer saga. Once heralded as a cornerstone of the French club’s ambitions, the 26-year-old shot-stopper is now facing exclusion and uncertainty, with his future at PSG hanging in the balance.
PSG’s Bold Move: Excluding Donnarumma
On August 11, 2025, reports surfaced that Donnarumma had been excluded from PSG’s squad for the UEFA Super Cup clash against Tottenham Hotspur. According to Fabrizio Romano, this decision stems from stalled contract negotiations between the player and the club. Despite being under contract until June 2026, Donnarumma has reportedly refused to extend his deal, leading PSG to take a firm stance by sidelining him for such a high-profile match.
Last season, Donnarumma was instrumental in PSG’s first-ever UEFA Champions League triumph, making 47 appearances, conceding 43 goals, and securing 17 clean sheets. His performances in the knockout stages were particularly noteworthy, solidifying his reputation as one of the world’s premier goalkeepers. However, the arrival of Lucas Chevalier from LOSC Lille for €40 million has signaled a shift in PSG’s strategy, with the club seemingly preparing for a future without their star goalkeeper.
Premier League Beckons: Interest from England
The uncertainty surrounding Donnarumma’s future has caught the attention of several Premier League giants. ESPN reported that Manchester United and Chelsea are among the clubs vying for his signature. Manchester United, under new manager Ruben Amorim, is reportedly seeking a replacement for André Onana, while Chelsea has also emerged as a serious contender. PSG is said to be open to selling Donnarumma for a reduced fee of approximately £26 million, as they aim to avoid losing him on a free transfer when his contract expires.
While the Premier League appears to be the most likely destination, other clubs, including Inter Milan, have also expressed interest in the Italian international. However, given Donnarumma’s previous ties to AC Milan, a move to their city rivals could prove controversial.
Donnarumma’s Response and Legacy
In response to his exclusion, Donnarumma’s camp has expressed frustration, emphasizing his crucial role in PSG’s recent successes. According to a statement shared with Yahoo Sports, his representatives highlighted that Donnarumma directly contributed to PSG’s Champions League victory and their qualification for the UEFA Super Cup. They also reiterated his standing as one of the world’s top goalkeepers, suggesting that any move would need to align with his stature and ambitions.
Since joining PSG in 2021 from AC Milan, Donnarumma has made 161 appearances for the club. His tenure has been marked by both individual brilliance and occasional controversies, including competition for the starting spot with former PSG goalkeeper Keylor Navas. Despite these challenges, his contributions to PSG’s domestic and European successes cannot be understated.
The Bigger Picture: PSG’s Strategic Shift
Donnarumma’s potential departure is part of a broader reshuffling at PSG. The club’s decision to invest in young talents like Lucas Chevalier indicates a shift towards long-term planning. With five goalkeepers now on their roster, including Matvey Safonov and Arnau Tenas, PSG appears to be diversifying their options in preparation for life after Donnarumma.
Meanwhile, new coach Luis Enrique is making bold decisions to establish his authority. Excluding a player of Donnarumma’s caliber from the UEFA Super Cup squad sends a clear message about the club’s priorities and willingness to make tough calls for the future.
As the transfer window approaches its climax, all eyes will be on Donnarumma and PSG. Whether he moves to the Premier League, returns to Italy, or remains in Paris until his contract expires, the outcome will undoubtedly have significant implications for both the player and the club.

