The 2024 summer transfer window at Paris Saint-Germain kicked off with an unexpected signing: Matvey Safonov. The Russian goalkeeper, acquired for €20 million from Krasnodar, has already begun making his mark. Initially positioned as Gianluigi Donnarumma’s backup, Safonov has since outperformed Lucas Chevalier—despite the Frenchman’s €55 million price tag—and is now set to start in goal for the club’s UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal on May 30.
Luis Campos turns focus to Russian talent pool
The success of Safonov’s arrival has inspired further ambitions at Parc des Princes. Luis Campos, the club’s sporting director, is now eyeing additional reinforcements from Russia’s top leagues. Among the top targets is Aleksey Batrakov, a 20-year-old attacking midfielder who has already delivered 17 goals and 12 assists in 35 matches for Lokomotiv Moscow this season. Reports suggest Campos may have already traveled to Moscow to open formal negotiations, with Batrakov’s agent Vladimir Kuzmichev confirming recent discussions.
PSG set to target two young Russian stars
The club’s interest doesn’t end there. Another promising prospect, Matvey Kislyak, has also caught the attention of the Parisian side. The 20-year-old CSKA Moscow midfielder brings an aggressive, possession-based profile that aligns with Luis Enrique’s tactical vision. With nine international caps to his name and a contract running until 2029, Kislyak has contributed six goals and six assists in 28 league appearances this season. A potential departure of Lee Kang-in could further accelerate his move to the French capital.
