Ex-Manchester City goalkeeper David James has tipped PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma to join Manchester United rather than his old club.
Reports suggest that Pep Guardiola’s side have been in talks to buy the Italian international, but James believes Donnarumma would be a better fit for the Red Devils:
“City don’t need him with everything I’ve said about James Trafford. But if there was an opportunity to go to Manchester United, then do it. I mean, if he goes now, he’s got a season without any European competition. I caveat that because he is a big game player.”
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“I’m not overly convinced about his week-to-week stuff, but when it comes to big games, this is a guy who’s fearless and more than capable of producing a performance. Hence the reason, Italy are European champions. Hence the reason Paris Saint-Germain are Champions League winners.”
“He’s a sort of player who isn’t going to be phased by playing in front of 70,000 people every other week, and he’s not going to be phased if Manchester United get in a position where they compete for trophies and are playing in a major final. So I think he would be a great addition to the Premier League.”
Is Donnarumma a realistic target?
There are two substantial obstacles to overcome if United do want to secure the 26-year-old’s signature before the transfer window closes.
Donnarumma has sizeable salary expectations, with a wage in excess of £250,000 a week being demanded. On top of that, PSG’s asking price is reportedly between £35m and £40m.
Without sales, it seems unlikely that Ruben Amorim’s side will have the funds to make a bid for the Champions League winner.
Will Man United make a move for a goalkeeper?
With Andre Onana having been left out of the squad for the defeat to Arsenal, it seems as if Amorim is keen on recruiting a new No.1.
After Altar Bayindir’s mistake last weekend, the need to recruit a keeper is all the more urgent. It means that a signing of some kind is on the cards, but, as things stand, it may have to be a loan or low-cost transfer.
David James was speaking to Gambling.com, who specialise in comparing and ranking online gambling sites
Read more about the Manchester United First Team Squad for 2025/26 here