AC Milan are set to lose one of Italy’s most promising young goalkeepers as Alessandro Longoni prepares to join Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer, bringing an abrupt end to his development at San Siro. The move represents a significant coup for the French champions, who continue to bolster their squad following back to back Champions League triumphs with strategic acquisitions across multiple positions.
Transfer market specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the deal, reporting that Longoni will sign imminently to become PSG’s third choice goalkeeper behind new starter Matvey Safonov and Lucas Chevalier. The 19 year old keeper, who captained Italy’s Under 17 side to European Championship glory in 2024, had been widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Italian football. His departure marks a rare instance of Milan losing a homegrown talent to a European rival without compensation.
Behind the scenes, tensions between Longoni and Milan’s coaching staff had been building for several months. Management’s decision to promote Matteo Pittarella and Lorenzo Torriani ahead of him into the first team squad proved to be a breaking point in the relationship. Rather than receiving opportunities with the senior side, Longoni found himself relegated to appearances with the Primavera youth team and Milan Futuro, the club’s development side competing in Serie D.
Financial disagreements compounded the sporting frustrations. Negotiations over a contract extension reportedly stalled over economic terms that Longoni and his representatives felt did not reflect his status as a European champion and highly rated prospect. Milan’s reluctance to meet his demands, combined with uncertainty about his pathway to first team football, created an environment where separation became inevitable. PSG recognized the opportunity and moved swiftly to secure his signature.
According to sources in France, Luis Enrique plans to integrate Longoni directly into the first team environment at Parc des Princes. While he will begin as third choice, the Spanish manager sees significant long term value in developing a goalkeeper who has already demonstrated leadership qualities at international level. PSG’s track record of nurturing young talent, particularly in recent seasons, likely appealed to Longoni as he weighed his options.
For Milan, the loss represents more than just a personnel setback. Allowing a talent of Longoni’s caliber to depart on a free transfer raises questions about the club’s youth development strategy and communication with promising players about their futures. As Milan continue their own squad building efforts, including the potential record breaking signing of Goncalo Ramos from PSG and pursuits of other targets, they will need to address how such situations can be avoided. Whether Longoni becomes a cautionary tale or simply a player who needed a fresh start elsewhere remains to be seen, but PSG are clearly betting on the latter scenario as they plan for sustained domestic and European success.
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