PSG's goalkeeping changes

SGGPO May 30, 2023 13:56

Following goalkeeper Sergio Rico's injury, Paris Saint-Germain are considering changes to their goalkeeping position this summer.

PSG's goalkeeper squad: Donnarumma, Navas and Letellier

Current context

According to the roster, Paris Saint-Germain currently has four goalkeepers. The starting order is: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Keylor Navas, Sergio Rico and Alexandre Letellier.

Third goalkeeper Sergio Rico, as reported by SGGP, has just had an unfortunate accident and is unlikely to avoid a long-term absence. Keylor Navas has an "unclear future" and Letellier is simply playing a "strategic role" on the bench.

Sergio Rico

Coach Christophe Galtier wants a name capable of competing with Gigio Donnarumma. Originally, Keylor Navas was available, but the former Real Madrid goalkeeper is more than 90% likely to leave, due to personal wishes as well as the goal of reducing PSG's salary fund. Navas is currently receiving 1 million euros/month, with a contract until June 2024.

Keylor Navas at Nottingham

The ambition and pride of the three-time Champions League winner will not allow Keylor Navas to be behind Donnarumma any longer. Agent Jorge Mendes has confirmed this and in fact, he has proven his ability after half a season at Nottingham Forest. Contacts from Saudi Arabia to Navas have appeared and PSG is well aware of the situation.

"Who is the new person?"

Foot Mercato claimed in March that PSG would definitely strengthen their goalkeeper. The candidate was also identified: Illan Meslier from Leeds United.

Illan Meslier, the promising goalkeeper of the French U21 team, is a suitable option for PSG. Having just been relegated with Leeds United, Meslier's talent has been confirmed with a 58% successful save rate per game (8th in the Premier League). Although Meslier has declined in recent seasons, he is inevitable in the general decline of Leeds.

Illan Meslier to PSG?

PSG have been interested in the 2000-born talent since Pochettino's time, but Donnarumma and Navas are still around, so the deal was overlooked. Now it is not difficult for PSG to approach Illan Meslier for 22 million euros (according to Transfermarkt). If he develops well, the youngest goalkeeper to start 100 Premier League matches is completely capable of competing with Donnarumma.

Meslier in Leeds colours

Regarding the replacement of Sergio Rico, PSG is still waiting for the conclusion of his injury. In this situation, buying more people is not necessary because there is still "supporting actor" Letellier. On the other hand, coach Galtier can promote Lucas Lavallee from the youth team if he wants to keep the current framework of 4 goalkeeper options.

Conclusion

The goalkeeper is not exactly PSG's "weak point", but he is certainly not a solid support after this season's performance. No PSG fan can forget the fatal mistake Donnarumma made against Bayern Munich, contributing to the team's early elimination from the Champions League.

Donnarumma's mistake against Bayern Munich

However, Donnarumma cannot be dismissed just because of mistakes. The former AC Milan captain is only 24 years old, has a long career ahead and is still recognized as a class. But creating greater competition for him is necessary. Keylor Navas will leave sooner or later, and the new one will have to come...

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