When Paris Saint-Germain opened its summer 2024 transfer window with the surprise signing of goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, few expected the move to spark a broader strategy. The Russian international arrived from Krasnodar for around €20 million, and his rapid rise has already reshaped the club’s goalkeeper hierarchy. Safonov, initially the backup to Gianluigi Donnarumma, has outperformed Lucas Chevalier—hired for €55 million just months earlier—and is now poised to start in goal for the Champions League final against Arsenal on May 30, barring injury.
Luis Campos turns attention to Russian football market
With Safonov’s integration proving successful, sporting director Luis Campos has expanded his recruitment radar toward promising Russian talents. Among them, Aleksey Batrakov, a 20-year-old attacking midfielder, has caught his eye. Batrakov’s impressive tally of 17 goals and 12 assists in 35 appearances for Lokomotiv Moscow this season has not gone unnoticed. Reports suggest Campos may have already visited Moscow to discuss a potential deal. According to Vladimir Kuzmichev, Batrakov’s agent, the club’s representatives or their close associates are expected to travel to the Russian capital for further negotiations.
Could PSG secure two more Russian stars?
The club’s interest doesn’t end there. Matvey Kislyak, a 20-year-old midfielder from CSKA Moscow, is also on the radar. Known for his technical ability and tactical alignment with Luis Enrique’s playing style, Kislyak has already racked up nine international caps for Russia. His contract runs until 2029, and he has contributed six goals and six assists in 28 league appearances this season. His potential arrival could offset the possible departure of midfielder Lee Kang-in, offering PSG a fresh dynamic in midfield.
