Why Man Utd pulled out of Gianluigi Donnarumma transfer, Man City's astonishing actual payout revealed
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(Credit: Hasan Karim, Breaking Media, Imago)
Aasif Rahman
Sat 20 September 2025 11:47, UK
Man United had Gianluigi Donnarumma on their radar in the summer window, only for the Champions League winner to move to rivals Man City for an astonishing total cost.
The Red Devils were in the market for a new goalkeeper this summer, after Andre Onana’s constant troubles at the back.
Football Insider had revealed in early August that Man United were assessing a potential deal for Donnarumma, as it was made clear that PSG wanted to sell him after a breakdown in contract talks.
However, with the Red Devils hesitant over a potential move, Man City swooped in and signed Donnarumma on deadline day, to replace the departing Ederson.
Instead, Ruben Amorim’s side completed a deal for 23-year-old Senne Lammens, and the reasoning behind that decision has now come to light.
Credit: Imago
Jason Burt of The Telegraph reported on 19 September that United were “offered” the chance to sign Donnarumma, but did not pursue a deal due to his financial demands.
He added finances were the “main reason” why the club didn’t sign him as they were quoted a £35 million fee as well as wage demands of around £330,000 a week.
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The total cost of a potential deal would have exceeded £130m if he signed on a five-year deal, and he would’ve also instantly become the highest earner.
That outlay meant Man United pursued a deal for Lammens instead, who is yet to make an appearance for the Red Devils.
Donnarumma is believed to be on a huge wage at Man City after earning nearly £500,000 at PSG, but it is believed Pep Guardiola urged the signing, especially after Ederson’s exit.
ClubsClean sheetsGoals concededMan City20PSG56156Donnarumma’s statistics.
With a world-class goalkeeper available on the market, United decided against making the move for a ready-made goalkeeper to sign the unproven Lammens.
However, Amorim has continued to trust Altay Bayindir as his goalkeeping option so far this season.
Lammens is seen as a long-term option for Man United, and some may have assumed he would start sooner after Andre Onana’s exit
The decision to choose youth over world-class quality could prove costly, as the club continues to face challenges on the pitch.