Why Gianluigi Donnarumma would be a fantastic signing for Chelsea
According to claims from TalkChelsea (h/t Football London), Chelsea have entered negotiations with the agent of AC Milan goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The Italy international’s current deal at the San Siro expires next summer and talks over a new contract with the Rossoneri are yet to reach a positive conclusion. That has left the door open for Chelsea, who are hoping to exploit the young shot-stopper’s situation at his boyhood club.
Milan remain hopeful of retaining the services of their star academy graduate beyond the ongoing campaign but the Blues are knocking on the door, nevertheless.
Profile
Donnarumma made his senior professional debut for AC Milan during the 2015-16 season aged just 16 and has since evolved into one of the best young shot-stoppers on the planet. He has impressed as the club’s undisputed No.1 in the Serie A for a number of years, amassing 78 clean sheets in 223 appearances across all competitions so far.
Add to that his 22 senior international caps for Italy and Donnarumma already boasts an eye-watering CV for a goalkeeper aged just 21.
Meanwhile, Chelsea splashed a handsome £22million to sign Edouard Mendy from Stade Rennes in the summer. The Senegalese custodian arrived in West London on the back of a poor season between the sticks for Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Mendy proved his credentials as an outright upgrade on Kepa with a sensational start to life at Stamford Bridge. The 28-year-old managed 9 clean sheets in his first 12 games across all competitions but has come under scrutiny for some unnecessary errors in recent weeks. The Senegalese star has even been criticised for failing to make a few regulation saves, most notably Daniel Podence’s goal in the 2-1 loss against Wolves.
Putting things into context, Chelsea should make themselves alert to market opportunities to bring in a world-class shot-stopper next summer and Gianluigi Donnarumma would undoubtedly represent an almighty coup on a free transfer. The Italian international has already achieved a lot at the tender age of 21 and still has plenty of room for development.
Verdict
With Willy Caballero already 39 and out of contract next summer, Chelsea also need to move on Kepa to make room for Donnarumma. Frank Lampard has made it pretty clear with his selection this season that there is no way back for the Spaniard at Stamford Bridge. Considering that he’s costing the club significant wages, the Blues should try to get him off their books next summer.
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Mendy might have impressed in patches but Chelsea need a more reliable figure between the sticks if they are to challenge for silverware on all fronts. With more than 200 club career appearances under his belt, Donnarumma has the experience and quality to take the Blues to greater heights.
