Real Madrid want Italy captain to replace 33-year-old star but face Bayern and Premier League threat | OneFootball

In a new update from La Gazzetta dello Sport, it has emerged that Real Madrid are closely monitoring the situation surrounding Gianluigi Donnarumma, with the Italian goalkeeper being viewed as a potential long-term replacement for Thibaut Courtois.

The 26-year-old’s current contract with Paris Saint-Germain runs until 2026, but serious doubts now surround his future in France following a breakdown in renewal negotiations.

Donnarumma, fresh from lifting the UEFA Champions League with PSG, is reportedly eager for a new challenge and has set his sights on clubs capable of matching his ambition.

The report outlines that the two most attractive destinations for the Italian are Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, both European giants with strong long-term needs.

PSG’s ultimatum

According to the report, negotiations between Donnarumma and PSG over a new deal began a year ago, with the player initially giving the green light to a revised contract proposal.

The terms included a performance-based structure that would modulate his salary, currently believed to be in the region of €10 million per year. However, complications soon followed.

Donnarumma’s entourage requested some minor amendments to the proposed contract, a move which was met with silence from PSG.

Donnarumma’s contract with PSG expires in 2026. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

This has led to a complete deadlock, and now, PSG have issued a clear ultimatum: either the Italy captain accepts the terms on the table or submits a formal request to leave.

Real Madrid’s long-term view

With Thibaut Courtois nearing 34 and coming off a long-term injury, Real Madrid are laying the groundwork for a future between the posts.

Although Courtois remains one of the best in the world when fit, Los Blancos are already planning for the next generation, and Donnarumma fits the bill perfectly.

Moreover, it is also said that Donnarumma himself is understood to be open to the idea of a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Amidst all this, Bayern Munich are also in the race. While they continue to rely on Manuel Neuer, the Bavarians are actively exploring future options. Donnarumma is viewed as an ideal successor to Neuer, both in stature and quality.

Lastly, the Premier League remains a wildcard. England’s top clubs, flush with cash and hungry for high-profile signings, are said to be keeping tabs on the situation, and Donnarumma’s name has long circulated in Premier League circles.