City’s safety net: Rulli returns to Etihad as Donnarumma’s backup

Manchester City have named Olympique Marseille Gerónimo Rulli, the 34‑year‑old Argentine goalkeeper, as their preferred backup for Gianluigi Donnarumma, a move that would see him return to the Etihad after a brief spell on City’s books in 2016, as James Trafford edges toward a Leeds United transfer.

James Trafford is on the verge of completing a switch to Leeds United, leaving Enzo Maresca’s squad without a recognised deputy for Gianluigi Donnarumma. City therefore aim to add an experienced reserve shot‑stopper to safeguard against injury or rotation.

Rulli, 34, brings a wealth of experience across Europe, having featured for Real Sociedad, Montpellier, Villarreal and Ajax before joining Olympique Marseille. He is praised for his footwork, a quality that would aid Manchester City’s build‑up from the back.

The Argentine keeper was briefly on Manchester City’s books in 2016 before being loaned to Real Sociedad at the start of 2017 and subsequently sold without making an appearance.

Fabrizio Romano reported that City have set their sights on signing Rulli and that the keeper is open to joining Enzo Maresca’s squad. Olympique Marseille are reportedly aware of the Premier League club’s interest.

If the transfer materialises, Rulli would become City’s cup goalkeeper and provide a reliable deputy should Donnarumma become unavailable. The move would also give Rulli a return to the Etihad and an opportunity to add further experience to his career.

The signing is considered straightforward given Rulli’s willingness and Marseille’s awareness, but finalisation will depend on agreement of terms between the clubs.