Chelsea in talks to sign Maignan as Milan set £25m fee

Chelsea are working to strengthen their goalkeeping department with Mike Maignan emerging as a top target following AC Milan’s response to initial contact. The Serie A side are reportedly open to selling the French international for £25 million.

The Blues have already started their summer rebuild by signing Sporting midfielder Dario Essugo, with Ipswich striker Liam Delap expected to arrive next. Now, replacing Robert Sanchez is a major priority after a season filled with goalkeeping instability.

Sanchez began the campaign as Chelsea’s number one under Enzo Maresca, but a series of costly errors led to his demotion. Filip Jorgensen was briefly trusted with the gloves before also struggling to maintain form, forcing Chelsea to explore options in the market.

Maignan, who has one year left on his contract at San Siro, is Chelsea’s preferred option. The 29-year-old has been a consistent performer since his arrival from Lille in 2021 and helped Milan secure both the Serie A title and Italian Super Cup during his time in goal.

Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Milan would accept an offer of €30 million, or around £25 million, for the Frenchman. With Chelsea hoping to finalise key signings ahead of the Club World Cup starting in under two weeks, Maresca is eager to have his new goalkeeper in place.

Maignan has made over 160 appearances for Milan and is considered one of the most reliable shot-stoppers in Europe. His potential exit has prompted Milan to consider Torino’s Vanja Milinkovic-Savic as a possible successor.

Several other goalkeepers have been linked with Chelsea, including Mile Svilar of Roma, James Trafford of Burnley, and Aaron Ramsdale of Southampton, but Maignan appears to be their top target at this stage.

The coming days could prove decisive as Chelsea weigh their options and Milan await a formal offer.

Abasiodu Sunday

About the Author: Abasiodu Sunday

Abasiodu Sunday is an author whose passion for global football spans beyond borders, capturing the excitement of rising stars and established legends alike. From the English Premier League to the FA Cup, the Champions League, the World Cup, and beyond, Imhons' writing covers the most prestigious tournaments and leagues worldwide. Whether it’s the vibrant fields of the Americas, the storied stadiums of Europe, the passionate pitches of the Middle East, or the heart of Africa, Imhons is always eager to explore the game. With a drink in hand, the author expertly connects the dots between culture, identity, and football, offering readers a deep dive into the universal love and intricacies of the sport.

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