Chelsea in Shock Transfer Talks for AC Milan Keeper Mike Maignan

Football News

Chelsea is reportedly in discussions with AC Milan regarding the potential transfer of goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

The 29-year-old France international has only one year remaining on his current contract in Italy, and new terms have not yet been agreed upon by either the player or the club.

Mike Maignan, AC Milan goalkeeper
Chelsea want to sign Mike Maignan

Chelsea has taken notice of Maignan`s inability to agree to a contract extension at the San Siro, particularly after AC Milan did not secure European qualification.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca reportedly views the goalkeeper, valued at £34 million, as a suitable candidate for his tactical system which relies on possession.

The club currently has five goalkeepers under contract: Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, Djordje Petrovic, Mike Penders, and Kepa Arrizabalaga.

However, Maignan`s potential arrival would introduce competition for the primary goalkeeping spot, leading to further changes within the team`s goalkeeper roster.

Many Chelsea supporters have been urging the club to sign a new primary goalkeeper, as neither Sanchez nor Jorgensen have consistently demonstrated they are the clear first choice.

Born in French Guiana, Maignan was part of the Lille team that won the French league title in 2021.

A year later, he secured the Serie A title with AC Milan.

Maignan has made a total of 163 appearances for the Italian club. Last season, he made four errors that resulted in goals, compared to five made by Sanchez.

Mike Maignan`s statistics for AC Milan
Mike Maignan`s 2024-25 Serie A season statistics for AC Milan.

However, AC Milan might opt to sell him now due to concerns that he could potentially leave the club as a free agent in 2026.

Maignan has represented France 30 times and was included in the Euro 2024 Team of the Tournament.

Robert Sánchez`s statistics for Chelsea FC
Robert Sánchez`s 2024-25 Chelsea FC goalkeeper statistics.

Meanwhile, Enzo Maresca`s Chelsea are reportedly close to completing their first summer signing with Liam Delap.

Chelsea is expected to activate his £30 million release clause from relegated Ipswich, where he moved last summer from Manchester City.

Additionally, Chelsea is set to welcome young prospects Estevao Willian, Kendry Paez, and Dario Essugo.

In terms of departures, Jadon Sancho is one player leaving the club.

Chelsea reportedly paid Manchester United £5 million as part of the agreement not to sign him permanently.

The 25-year-old winger posted a farewell message on Instagram, stating: “Grateful for the experience. Big love to everyone at Chelsea who made me feel at home — team-mates, staff and the fans. Wishing the club all the best moving forward. Truly grateful. Thank you Blues.”

Jadon Sancho
Jadon Sancho is leaving Chelsea.
Callum Drayton
Callum Drayton

Meet Callum Drayton, a passionate journalist living in an English city, dedicated to uncovering the latest in sports news. From football pitches to boxing rings, Callum’s knack for storytelling brings every game to life.

Current news of the sports world