Chelsea may renew efforts to sign 30-year-old French international Mike Maignan next year after failing to secure his services in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Mike Maignan remains the subject of interest from Chelsea. The Blues were keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a goalkeeper in the summer transfer window. So, the 30-year-old AC Milan shot-stopper was a target for the West London club.
However, the 2024/25 UEFA Europa Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup winners decided against pursuing the Frenchman’s signature due to AC Milan’s asking price. While personal terms were not an issue, the Serie A club’s valuation ended the move. However, Chelsea’s interest in Maignan has not ended, and they may return with a move next year.
Mike Maignan and his career so far
Mike Maignan has established himself as one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the world since his spell with LOSC Lille. The 30-year-old became a household name during his time with Les Dogues, and he has made considerable progress since joining AC Milan from the Ligue 1 club in July 2021.
The French international has made over 150 appearances thus far for AC Milan while keeping 61 clean sheets and conceding 172 goals. However, Maignan’s long-term future has been uncertain, as he has entered the final 12 months of his contract. The situation did not go unnoticed this past summer, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs, including Chelsea.
London calling next year?
Chelsea’s interest in Mike Maignan has been perplexing yet understandable. While Enzo Maresca has several goalkeepers in his squad, Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen were error-prone in the 2024/25 season. So, the AC Milan shot-stopper emerged as a viable target for the West London club.
However, a summer move did not materialise after Chelsea attempted to secure the 30-year-old Frenchman’s services before and after the FIFA Club World Cup. The failure to sign Maignan has not dampened spirits at Chelsea, and the Premier League bigwigs will likely return for him next summer.
Considering personal terms have not been an issue, the French international may move to Stamford Bridge in a Bosman move next summer. However, a top-class campaign by Robert Sanchez can change the minds of the decision-makers at Chelsea.
