Chelsea have now joined the race to sign a “sensational” £34m major Ballon d’Or contender, but there could be fierce competition from rival Premier League clubs, according to a report.
Chelsea set to continue summer spending spree after Club World Cup win
The Blues certainly haven’t been afraid of splashing the cash under the helm of Todd Boehly, having made significant losses over the past four seasons in terms of net spend.
Season
Net spend
2022-23
£-486m
2023-24
£-157m
2024-25
£-37m
2025-26
£-191m
However, despite spending big up to this point, with the likes of Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens sealing moves to Stamford Bridge, there is still one problem position, which Enzo Maresca is yet to strengthen.
Journalist says "elite" player wants to join Chelsea amid Maresca demand
The Italian has asked Chelsea to make another addition.
1 ByEmilio Galantini
Throughout the 2024-25 campaign, Maresca had issues with his goalkeepers, with Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen each being given runs in the side, indicating the manager has major doubts about both players.
As such, the west Londoners may have to bring in a top-level goalkeeper this summer, should they have a real ambition of competing for the Premier League title next season, and they have now identified a new target.
That is according to a report from France, which states Chelsea have joined the race for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who is set to make a decision on his future now the Club World Cup has reached its conclusion, with the Blues securing a 3-0 victory over the French giants on Sunday night.
However, there could be fierce competition for Donnarumma, with the shot-stopper also attracting the attention of Manchester City and Manchester United, which could pose a problem.
The 26-year-old’s contract is set to expire next summer, which has alerted a number of clubs to his potential availability, however, despite a reported asking price of £34m, his main priority is to extend his stay at the Parc des Princes.
"Sensational" Donnarumma vying to win the Ballon d'Or
PSG have enjoyed unparalleled success under the helm of Luis Enrique, most notably winning the 2025 Champions League after thrashing Inter Milan 5-0 in the final, meaning Ousmane Dembele and Donnarumma are among the main contenders for the Ballon d’Or.
While the Italian managed to shut-out Inter in the final, he was particularly impressive in the semi-final against Arsenal, with NBC Sports’ Joe Prince-Wright suggesting he was a real difference-maker over the course of the two legs.
The PSG star made two huge saves to keep the Gunners at bay, and his experience at the top level would make the Italy international an ideal signing.
That said, while Chelsea were recently crowned Club World Cup champions, it could be difficult to lure Donnarumma away from PSG, given his willingness to sign a new deal.