Robert Sanchez has been the starting goalkeeper for Chelsea for several years now. Yet, it has never felt like he has truly established himself as the number one. That is unfortunate, as he has all the tools to be a world-class goalkeeper. But he tends to be someone who is heavily dependent on his confidence. He can be in the form of his life, but one bad game, and the Spaniard starts to look shaky again.
That is what happened this season. He was arguably the best goalkeeper in the Premier League for the first few months of the campaign. But then he had a few bad outings, including one in which he cost Chelsea the match against Arsenal, and it took him months to recover from that.
Chelsea might need someone a bit more consistent and reliable if they want to be competing for titles. And it appears that they are ready to bring back their interest in a world-class goalkeeper.
According to Calciomercato, Chelsea are still on the trail of Mike Maignan. They are ready to make an offer for the French goalkeeper, but options leading to Bayern Munich and Manchester United cannot be ruled out either.
Mike Maignan could be on the receiving end of an offer from Chelsea
Chelsea were close to signing Maignan last summer. Personal terms were believed to have been agreed. But the two clubs could not reach an agreement over a deal.
Maignan has since signed an extension with AC Milan. But following the recent changes and events, his future at the Italian club is once again in doubt.
Firstly, they have missed out on Champions League football this season. And secondly, Max Allegri has been sacked. The manager was believed to be a primary reason behind Maignan rediscovering himself at AC Milan. Now, with him gone, that could lead the Frenchman to reconsider his future as well.
Would Maignan be a good signing for Chelsea?
Maignan has long been considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world. His form over the past few seasons has not been up to that level though. So, Chelsea might be going for reputation here rather than recent performances.
Also, on top of his game, Sanchez might actually be the better goalkeeper. He might have a slight edge when it comes to shot-stopping, and he’s brilliant at commanding the box as well. Of course, that is debatable. But it is just my personal opinion.
Then there is the Mike Penders factor. The 20-year-old has done an excellent job at Strasbourg. Bringing in an established goalkeeper right now might lead him to question his future chances and push for an exit at some point.
Sourav Mahanty
Sourav Mahanty has covered teams like Chelsea, Celtic, Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG and more over a career that has now lasted a decade. His work has been featured on Sports Illustrated, Athlon Sports, SB Nation, FanSided, The Sportster and aggregated through Bleacher Report and NewsNow. Outside of football, he is also interested in basketball, cricket and professional wrestling.
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