Just a couple of weeks ago, Chelsea were busy putting three goals past Gianluigi Donnarumma on their way to winning the Club World Cup. Joao Pedro even had the bravery to chip it over the 6 ft 5 in Italian number one before dancing in celebration. But could we see the two on the same team in the near future?
Donnarumma is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Arguably the very best. Chelsea need a player of that calibre. No matter how well Robert Sanchez did in the Club World Cup final, there are serious questions about his long-term future as the club's number one.
Amid all this, a timely window of opportunity might have opened for Chelsea. One, which if true, they must make the most of.
As reported by L'Equipe (via GOAL), PSG officials are looking to part ways with Donnarumma this summer after the Italian refused to sign a new contract. They do not want a repeat of the Kylian Mbappe situation as he joined Real Madrid as a free agent.
Chelsea handed major Gianluigi Donnarumma transfer boost amid contract situation with PSG
This update coming from France is very interesting. That is because it comes merely weeks after there had been rumours in England that Chelsea were interested in Donnarumma.
Of course, one cannot forget that Chelsea did try to sign Mike Maignan before the Club World Cup but failed. It is not like they have zero interest in strengthening the position, no matter what some in the media tell you. And the opportunity to sign someone of Donnarumma's quality does not come around often, especially for what would likely be a bargain transfer fee.
That being said, if Donnarumma does become available, expect a number of other clubs to be interested in signing him as well. He is one of the best goalkeepers on the planet and is still just 26 years of age. That is the position sorted for any club for pretty much the next decade.
It would not be straightforward for Chelsea to just go ahead and get a deal done. Another thing that may get in the way is their salary structure, which is not conducive to signing world-class players.
All things considered, do not expect to see Donnarumma in a Chelsea jersey next season. At the same time, do not be shocked if it does end up happening either.