Paris Saint-Germain has secured the signing of Lucas Chevalier, goalkeeper from Lille, on a five-year contract worth around 40 million euros plus potential bonuses amounting to an additional 15 million, according to sources close to ESPN. The 23-year-old Chevalier has already passed his medical exam in Paris and will be the club’s new starting goalkeeper.

This move marks the departure of Gianluigi Donnarumma, the Italian keeper who was a key player for PSG last season, helping them win their first-ever Champions League. However, the French club decided not to extend his contract, and the 26-year-old will now look for new opportunities. Clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Inter Milan have already shown interest.

Donnarumma’s desire for a contract renewal with a salary increase was rejected by management, who prefer a wage structure with lower base salaries but significant performance incentives, a policy driven by sporting director Luis Campos. Coach Luis Enrique also favored a goalkeeper with better ball distribution skills, which Chevalier provides.

Ballon d’Or 2025: Dembélé and Lamine Yamal lead the finalists

The upcoming Ballon d’Or promises a complete renewal in its list of winners. Among the 30 finalists for the 2025 award, Frenchman Ousmane Dembélé and young Spaniard Lamine Yamal stand out as strong candidates for the prestigious prize.

The absence of historic figures like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Rodri opens the door for a new generation of talent. At just 18, Yamal has shone at Barcelona with 21 goals and 22 assists, as well as winning the Spanish League, Cup, and Super Cup. Although the semifinal exit in the Champions League may weigh against him, his rise is undeniable.

Meanwhile, PSG boasts nine players among the finalists, including Dembélé, Gianluigi Donnarumma (nominated for the Yashin Trophy as best goalkeeper), Achraf Hakimi, and other key figures. The Paris club is also favored to be named best team of the year, while coach Luis Enrique is a top contender for the Cruyff Trophy for best coach.

Barcelona and their coach Hansi Flick are also among the nominees, with four players on the list and ambitions for collective awards. In contrast, Real Madrid only has three representatives, reflecting their lesser success last season.

With this goalkeeper renewal and a list of emerging and established stars, European and world football are experiencing an exciting transition period, where young talents like Lamine Yamal and strategic signings like Lucas Chevalier set the course for the coming years.