Home » Sport » Vivell strikes gold as ‘talks opened’ to sign elite game-changer

Vivell strikes gold as ‘talks opened’ to sign elite game-changer

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Man Utd Pursue PSG Star Donnarumma Amid Goalkeeping Uncertainty

Red Devils in Talks with Italian Shot-Stopper’s Camp

Manchester United are reportedly making significant moves in the transfer market, initiating discussions with the representatives of Paris Saint-Germain’s star goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma. This potential acquisition could dramatically reshape the team’s goalkeeping situation.

Strategic Reinforcements Beyond Striker Search

While the club’s primary focus has been on securing a new striker, management is actively exploring opportunities to strengthen other key positions. The addition of a centre-back and a midfielder are considered high priorities, but the goalkeeping role has also emerged as a major talking point, even with reports suggesting manager Ruben Amorim intends to back Andre Onana.

Donnarumma Emerges as Top Target

Fresh reports indicate that “discussions have taken place” in recent hours between Donnarumma’s entourage and Old Trafford transfer officials. This potential transfer is being hailed as a spectacular coup for United’s director of recruitment, Christopher Vivell. Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport suggests United are now frontrunners for the Italian international, following the impending arrival of highly-rated Lille prospect Lucas Chevalier at PSG.

The 23-year-old French goalkeeper has reportedly agreed to a switch to Paris, prompting PSG to consider offloading Donnarumma, who has just one year remaining on his contract with no extension in sight.

City Pull Out as United Lead the Charge

Earlier rumours had placed both United and rivals Manchester City in contention for Donnarumma’s signature. However, City confirmed the signing of James Trafford on Tuesday, seemingly ending their pursuit. Chelsea and Galatasaray are also rumoured to be interested, but the Corriere dello Sport report points to United as having made the most concrete move to secure a significant upgrade over Onana for Amorim ahead of the new season. This aligns with comments from Fabrizio Romano, who stated, “Man United want a new goalkeeper but the numbers have to be right.”

Van der Sar Backs Onana Amid Transfer Speculation

Despite the links to Donnarumma, former United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar has publicly backed Andre Onana, sending a clear message to Amorim. Van der Sar noted, “He has great strengths. He’s athletic. He has good reaction saves. Good with his feet and everything. I’m sure he’s going to get over it.”

He added, “I think there are more areas where United should see if you can have a better player, a different player. But I don’t think the goalkeeping situation needs to be addressed now.”

While Van der Sar’s comments might be seen as a typical show of support within the goalkeeping community, the potential acquisition of Donnarumma would represent a substantial upgrade.

The Premier League’s average save percentage across all goalkeepers in the 2023-2024 season was 72.9% (Premier League). A move for Donnarumma, should it materialise, could significantly boost United’s defensive statistics.

Other United Transfer News

In related news, Manchester United have reportedly made a significant decision regarding **Kobbie Mainoo’s** future. Separately, the club is said to be considering a spectacular striker signing, with **Bryan Mbeumo** reportedly endorsing the move. **Sir Jim Ratcliffe** has also reportedly removed **Nicolas Jackson** from the striker shortlist, favouring **Sesko** and **Ollie Watkins**.

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