AC Milan really would have frustrated Chelsea in the previous transfer window after refusing to budge on their price for Mike Maignan.
Chelsea saw Maignan as a golden opportunity in the transfer market. The Blues are open to signing a new goalkeeper, and the 29-year-old is into the final 12 months of his contract.
Because of his contract situation, Milan have effectively put the Frenchman on the market.
Ultimately, Chelsea saw a window, but Milan’s refusal to sell Maignan for less than £25m meant a deal never materialised. They were stubborn and reluctant to negotiate, and that is something Chelsea should not forget now that the Italian side are interested in one of their players.
A dejected Mike Maignan of AC Milan reacts to defeat
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Chelsea should block any potential Andrey Santos to AC Milan move
While Chelsea like Maignan, Milan seem to be huge fans of their Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos.
In April, it was reported that Milan were keen on Santos, and it does not look like their interest in him has gone away.
According to TEAMtalk, Milan are seriously thinking about making a move to bring the 21-year-old in on loan.
The outlet claims that Chelsea would actually be willing to sell Santos for around £43m but Milan want a more affordable loan deal.
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Whether it is a loan or permanent transfer the Serie A outfit are interested in, Chelsea should be petty and not entertain their advances after their stubborn stance on Maignan.
If the club want the Brazil international to go out and get regular game time, there will be plenty of other options. After an amazing season in Ligue 1, Santos will have suitors if he is allowed to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
CR Flamengo v Chelsea FC: Group D - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
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Why Andrey Santos may not have long-term future at Chelsea
Chelsea fans will not want to see Santos going anywhere, and it is not hard to understand why after his recent spell with Strasbourg.
The former Vasco da Gama player showed so much potential in France. The problem is Santos is competing against the likes of Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez and Romeo Lavia, who are not too much older than him. They could block his pathway for years.
At some point, then, it would not be a shock if Santos pushed for a move and Chelsea granted it. A transfer to Milan this summer, though, should not be sanctioned. The Blues should give their Italian counterparts a taste of their own medicine.