Man City Signs Gianluigi Donnarumma for £26 Million as New No. 1 Goalkeeper, Succeeding James Trafford
GIANLUIGI DONNARUMMA is set to be officially presented as Manchester City’s new first-choice goalkeeper tomorrow following a completed £26 million transfer.
The Italian national, now aged 26, has been looking for a new club since leaving PSG in August, where he was instrumental in their Champions League victory last season.
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City’s pursuit of Donnarumma came about after Ederson’s choice to leave the club.
Fenerbahce has finalized a £12 million agreement for the Brazilian keeper, who is currently on his way to Turkey to complete his transfer.
Donnarumma, now with the national squad, has been given the green light to undergo a medical and finalize his contract.
Club officials have confirmed that all matters were settled before the deadline, with a formal announcement expected shortly.
The Italian goalkeeper has signed a five-year contract, keeping him at City until 2030, along with the option for an extra year.
Guardiola’s trusted associate Luis Enrique, who shares a similar football philosophy with the City manager, took the helm at the French club this summer.
Enrique is noted for his limitations in ball distribution, a key element of Pep’s tactical setup, making this transfer surprising to many analysts.
Regardless, he is highly regarded as an exceptional shot-stopper and is expected to replace James Trafford, who has started for City in the early part of the season.
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Ederson stated during the Club World Cup this summer that he aimed to complete the final year of his contract at the Etihad.
However, his family showed interest in moving to Saudi Arabia last summer, seeking a fresh start after spending eight years in the North West.
Man City defender Akanji has gone on loan to Inter Milan
Ederson leaves after playing a vital role in City’s six Premier League titles during his eight years, including the remarkable treble achieved two seasons ago.
His backup, Stefan Ortega, sought a move away from City, but no deals were finalized prior to the deadline.
Additionally, another player from City’s treble-winning defense, Manuel Akanji, has been loaned to Inter.
The Italians will pay an upfront fee of £870,000 with a potential £12.5 million permanent transfer next summer.
Moreover, former captain Ilkay Gundogan has switched to Galatasaray.
The experienced midfielder, now 34, has yet to see any action for City this season.
Defender Issa Kabore has also exited the Etihad, joining Championship newcomers Wrexham on a season-long loan.