Champions League Final 2025: PSG vs Inter – A Clash and a Turning Point

The 2025 UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan was a tightly contested affair that ended with drama, intensity, and a display of tactical discipline from both sides. PSG edged Inter with a late goal from Kylian Mbappé, sealing their first-ever Champions League title and capping a season of redemption under Luis Enrique. Inter, valiant throughout, couldn’t convert their chances, despite a strong showing from Lautaro Martínez and Nicolò Barella.

But as the final whistle blew in Munich, attention swiftly turned to the summer transfer window—and what’s next for the stars who lit up Europe’s biggest stage.


What’s Next for the Stars?

Kylian Mbappé (PSG):
The headline departure. This final was his last appearance in a PSG shirt, as he’s already confirmed to be joining Real Madrid on a free transfer. His move is set to reshape the Spanish giants and push them into a new Galáctico era. The deal is reportedly worth over €100 million in total compensation including bonuses.

Lautaro Martínez (Inter):
Lautaro is attracting serious interest from Premier League clubs, notably Arsenal and Manchester United. Inter will demand upwards of €90 million. Whether he stays could depend on Inter’s financial needs, with CEO Marotta hinting they may sell one big name.

Achraf Hakimi (PSG):
Hakimi is another player under scrutiny, with Bayern Munich and Manchester City monitoring his situation. While PSG want to keep him, they may sell if they secure a replacement like Jeremie Frimpong.

Nicolò Barella (Inter):
Considered untouchable by Inter, but Liverpool and Chelsea are circling. Inter would only consider offers above €80 million. His strong performance in the final only raised his stock.

Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG):
Despite some ups and downs this season, Donnarumma is likely to stay. However, PSG are exploring competition in goal—Diogo Costa (Porto) and Mike Maignan (Milan) are rumored targets.

Marcus Thuram (Inter):
A breakout Champions League campaign means he could be on the move, with AC Milan and Tottenham monitoring his situation. Inter may choose to cash in due to interest in new forwards like Benjamin Sesko.


Market Dynamics: PSG and Inter’s Summer Strategies

PSG will undergo a mini-rebuild post-Mbappé. They are targeting a more balanced squad with fewer superstars and more collective depth. Players like Xavi Simons (returning from loan), Victor Osimhen, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia have been linked. Luis Enrique wants to shift to a more possession-based, high-intensity system.

Inter, meanwhile, aim to retain core players but may sell one major asset to fund squad reinforcements. The Nerazzurri are exploring options at full-back and striker, with Tiago Djaló, Albert Gudmundsson, and Joshua Zirkzee all on their radar.


A Final That Signaled a Market Shift

This final didn’t just crown a new European champion—it signaled a summer of change. With PSG turning the page post-Mbappé and Inter balancing ambition with financial prudence, the transfer market is poised to be one of the most active in years. Stars from this final will headline deals across the continent, setting up a reshaped European football landscape for 2025–26.

PSG’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, center, celebrates with his teammates after scoring his side’s fourth goal during the Champions League final soccer match between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, Saturday, May 31, 2025. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)

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