Ederson is set to move to Turkey
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Manchester City has reportedly reached an agreement to sign Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League-winning goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, while Ederson is on the verge of joining Turkish Süper Lig club Fenerbahçe. The Italian goalkeeper played a crucial role in PSG’s Champions League success last season, and at 26, he stands as one of the world’s most valuable keepers, worth €40 million. Notably, Donnarumma was excluded from Luis Enrique’s squad for the European Super Cup triumph over Tottenham Hotspur in August, with the coach stating that the club sought a “different goalkeeping profile,” leading to the acquisition of French international Lucas Chevalier from Lille.
“These decisions are always challenging,” said Luis Enrique regarding Donnarumma’s omission. “Gigio is among the best in his position, but we are searching for a goalkeeping style that differs from his.” The Brazil international Ederson, celebrated as one of Manchester City’s greatest goalkeepers, is anticipated to transfer to Fenerbahçe in a deal estimated around €14 million before the summer transfer window closes. Since joining City from Benfica in June 2017, Ederson has made 372 appearances for the club, secured 168 clean sheets, and enjoyed a stellar career in the northwest. Should Donnarumma complete his move, he will become the second new goalkeeper at the Etihad this season, following the return of James Trafford from Burnley earlier in the transfer period.
What can Gianluigi Donnarumma contribute to Manchester City?
Last season, Donnarumma notably saved two penalties in PSG’s Champions League round of 16 clash against Liverpool. Although he faced a challenging start to the season that led to a temporary loss of his starting position, he ended the campaign as one of Europe’s top-performing goalkeepers. Since joining PSG, he has made 161 appearances and kept 56 clean sheets. Last season alone, he played 47 matches, including all sessions during the Club World Cup as PSG advanced to the final. Donnarumma joined PSG in 2021, transitioning from AC Milan, where he had been part of the youth setup since 2013.
Despite being only 26, a relatively young age for a goalkeeper, Donnarumma brings substantial experience with him, having earned 74 senior international caps for Italy since his debut at the age of 17 in 2017. He captained Italy to their European Championship victory in 2021, defeating England in the final on penalties while earning the Player of the Tournament accolade for saving three spot-kicks. Throughout his career, Donnarumma has faced some off-field challenges and is known to be quite outspoken. While questions have been raised about his distribution skills, it’s indisputable that City would be acquiring one of Europe’s top shot-stoppers. Nevertheless, replacing Ederson will be no small task.
