Paris Saint-Germain are nearing a deal for Lucas Chevalier, the 23-year-old goalkeeper from Lille. The negotiation has progressed in recent days, with PSG submitting a formal offer and reaching an agreement with the player, who’s expected to sign a five-year contract. The French club hasn’t hit Lille’s €40 million asking price just yet, but plans to improve the offer with performance bonuses and clauses.
The move could shake up the team’s structure and brings up an unavoidable question. If Chevalier is coming in, does that mean Donnarumma is on his way out? While there’s been no official word, the writing may be on the wall. The Italian keeper is under contract until 2026, but talks about an extension have been on hold since the end of the Club World Cup. It’s a scenario that feels familiar —just like Mbappé, who didn’t renew and left on a free the following year.
Lille staying quiet
For now, Lille are holding firm. President Olivier Létang has no intention of letting Chevalier go for anything less than €40 million. On top of that, the club wants to line up a replacement before making any move. According to L’Équipe, PSG’s opening offer is set to be turned down. The interest from Paris isn’t new. Chevalier’s name has been in the conversation for months, and talks have picked up speed recently with the backing of coach Luis Enrique.
Chevalier featured in 48 matches last season. He kept 13 clean sheets and conceded 53 goals. He’s currently Maignan’s backup on the French national team and is under contract with Lille through 2027. PSG sees him as a solid, dependable option to take over in goal if Donnarumma does end up leaving.
Luis Enrique wants clarity
Since taking over at PSG, Luis Enrique has been working to shape the squad to match his style, and the goalkeeper spot is a key part of that process. Even with Donnarumma as the starter, there have always been questions about his fit in the club’s long-term vision. PSG had explored a move for Safonov, but those talks went nowhere. Now Chevalier stands out as the top target, with a profile that better matches what the coaching staff is looking for.
Chevalier’s arrival would signal a shift in strategy. PSG aren’t looking to react anymore, they’re trying to stay one step ahead. The end of the 2024/25 season showed how badly the club needs to make smarter, more forward-thinking decisions off the pitch. Donnarumma’s situation has gone from uncomfortable to unsustainable, and the club is taking action before it turns into a bigger issue. Chevalier is part of the plan to bring more balance and long-term structure to the squad.