Why don’t elite goalkeepers like Donnarumma shine in the transfer market?

Why aren’t elite goalkeepers in such high demand in the market?

Despite their exceptional talent, elite goalkeepers often face a contrasting reality in the transfer market, where their value seems not to be equal to that of players in other positions. Gianluigi Donnarumma of Paris Saint-Germain, Éderson of Manchester City and Mike Maignan of AC Milan, are clear examples of this situation. Despite consistently being among the best in the world in their position, their names do not resonate with the same force in the market as they would if they played in other positions. Despite their achievements and experience, Donnarumma, Éderson, and Maignan could be signed at reduced prices or even as free agents. However, the options for them are limited. PSG and Manchester City have chosen to sign young and promising goalkeepers, while the possible destinations for these goalkeepers seem scarce and not very specific.

• Summer transfer market analysis.
• Rumors about Arsenal’s interest in Eze.
• Premier League stars who need a team change.

This disparity is even more notable if we consider their individual achievements. Donnarumma, captain of Italy and champion of the European Championship and the Champions League. Éderson, a pillar in Guardiola’s City and winner of multiple Premier League titles. Maignan, considered one of the best goalkeepers in Serie A in recent years and number one for France. These credentials should make them coveted targets, but the reality of the transfer market is different.

Goalkeepers are governed by different rules.

Alofoke Deportes

This situation is partly due to structural factors. Unlike other positions, where internal competition is common, in the goal there is no room for rotation. Furthermore, the value of goalkeepers seems to be underestimated in current football. According to Transfermarkt’s valuation, Donnarumma shares the first place with three other goalkeepers, but the list of most valuable players extends to position 147 before finding Donnarumma again.

The valuation of goalkeepers seems to be out of sync with their actual impact on the game. Factors such as Donnarumma’s high salary, his performance with his feet, injuries, and the financial situation of the clubs also influence this equation. The perception of goalkeepers as interchangeable, and the difficulty of evaluating their performance compared to other positions, could be one of the reasons why they are not as valued in the market.