Chelsea received a boost in their pursuit of top goalkeeping target Mike Maignan, who could not think about leaving AC Milan.
L’Equipe insists Chelsea may have received a boost in their chase for Mike Maignan following the departure of Paolo Maldini. The former AC Milan director was key in bringing the 27-year-old Frenchman to San Siro, as the keeper could now consider moving away to another top club.
Mike Maignan has been one of the biggest success stories for AC Milan under Paolo Maldini. The director’s shock departure recently has shaken the club’s foundation, which may directly affect the status of some of their key players.
Mike Maignan could become one of their key departures in this window, although the club may not want to sell him. The keeper had earlier professed his happiness at San Siro, but the departure of Maldini could have a reverse effect on the 27-year-old.
Chelsea are lingering about looking for a new keeper and have the new France No.1 firmly in their sights. At Stamford Bridge, there is a glaring need for a new starting keeper, with the club likely to move on from one of Kepa Arrizabalaga and Edouard Mendy.
It does look like the latter would leave following his change of representation. Moreover, Mendy was deemed the second choice as the season progressed, as Kepa became the firm starting choice under Graham Potter and Frank Lampard.
However, Chelsea are considering a new No.1 one who could make the position his own. They have already contacted Maignan’s camp to know their intention to move to Stamford Bridge. Earlier indications suggested the 27-year-old would prefer to keep playing in the Champions League after the Blues finished 12th in the Premier League.
Additionally, reports emerged indicating AC Milan could demand an exorbitant price for the keeper. However, Chelsea are confident of reducing that and agreeing on a lower value. Maignan is not the only target in their minds, as they also have Andre Onana on their list.
In fact, before turning their attention to Maignan, Onana was Chelsea and Mauricio Pochettino’s firm favourite for the role. They have tried different ways, including offering several players in part exchange, as talks with Inter Milan continue.
If Inter Milan continues to hold tight, they might make a firm approach for Maignan. They are also aware the keeper may want out following the departure of Maldini at the helm. Whether the Milan legend’s presence seriously affects the 27-year-old remains the question. But there are no doubts about Chelsea’s interest.
