Chelsea have been linked with a move for AC Milan’s Mike Maignan and they’re taking steps forward for a deal.
The keeper was close to a move to Stamford Bridge last summer. When all seemed done, Max Allegri’s appointment changed the direction of the deal. Sport Witness covered this extensively, as goalkeeper coach Claudio Filippi also played a role in keeping the France international at the San Siro.
Now, things could be changing.
Milan failed to qualify for the Champions League and have gone through some off-pitch chaos.
Chelsea are back in the mix and making renewed attempts to sign him.
Contacts in place
MilanNews24 report that even if the Blues haven’t made a formal offer, their interest is likely to grow.
This is because they have ‘intensified contact’ with Maignan’s agent Jonathan Kebe. Chelsea have tried to understand the feasibility of the move and how much the keeper can cost this summer.
Ruben Amorim sees Maignan as a key part of his project. Ideally, he wouldn’t want to part ways with the Frenchman, who is playing at the World Cup. He feels Maignan will be very difficult to replace, especially because of his experience and leadership.
But the Portuguese coach may not have too much of a say. The former Lille player is considering a new experience and is attracted by a move to the Premier League. There is a feeling that his situation could get serious soon.
This is mainly because he has lost trust in the project at the club, who haven’t qualified for the Champions League for two seasons in a row.
Our take: Blues stance makes sense
Even during Maignan’s time at Lille, Chelsea were keen on signing him. This suggests they are long-term admirers and know about his strengths.
Xabi Alonso will need a new keeper, considering Robert Sanchez’s struggles in the 2025/26 campaign. Maignan is experienced, proven at the highest level and also had a decent season, despite Milan’s struggles.
He put his difficulties in the 2024/25 campaign behind him. There was a point when his fitness was causing concern but his track record is now much cleaner.