Paris Saint-Germain eyes Russian football prospects following Safonov coup

When Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) completed the signing of Matvey Safonov from Krasnodar for a reported €20 million in summer 2024, few anticipated the domino effect it would trigger. The 28-year-old goalkeeper’s rapid adaptation to Ligue 1 football has not only secured his position as first-choice but also opened new avenues for sporting director Luis Campos to explore the Russian transfer market.

Safonov’s rise reshapes PSG’s goalkeeper hierarchy

Initially recruited as backup to Gianluigi Donnarumma, Safonov has defied expectations by outperforming Lucas Chevalier—who cost €55 million including bonuses—this season. Unless injured, the Russian international will line up between the posts when PSG face Arsenal in the Champions League final on May 30, marking a remarkable turnaround in his first campaign at Parc des Princes.

PSG zeroes in on two promising Russian talents

Aleksey Batrakov: The Lokomotiv Moscow sensation

The success story of Safonov has emboldened Campos to pursue further opportunities in Russia. High on the wishlist is Aleksey Batrakov, a 20-year-old attacking midfielder whose explosive 2024-25 season—17 goals and 12 assists in 35 appearances—has caught the eye in Ligue 1 circles. Reports indicate PSG’s sporting director has made at least one trip to Moscow to initiate talks, with Batrakov’s agent Vladimir Kuzmichev confirming potential negotiations: “A PSG representative or close associate is expected to visit the capital soon, with primary discussions to be held with the club.”

Matvey Kislyak: A CSKA Moscow playmaker on Luis Enrique’s radar

PSG’s Russian recruitment drive may not end with Batrakov. Another target, Matvey Kislyak, a 20-year-old midfield dynamo at CSKA Moscow, fits Luis Enrique’s tactical blueprint perfectly. With nine caps for Russia and six goals plus six assists in 28 league games this season, Kislyak’s contract runs until 2029. His potential acquisition could provide a safety net should midfielder Lee Kang-in leave the club, offering depth and creativity in equal measure.

The Russian football market, once overlooked by European heavyweights, is now firmly on PSG’s radar—thanks in no small part to Safonov’s seamless integration into the team’s core.