Chelsea made an offer to AC Milan to sign goalkeeper Mike Maignan. According to emerging reports, negotiations on a new contract for the French international at the Italian club have not concluded positively. Maignan’s deal runs out in June 2026, and talks about a new one have collapsed.
The 29-year-old has been on Chelsea’s radar long enough, as they have been monitoring his situation in Milan. The Blues are hoping to add some depth to their goalkeeping ranks amid inconsistent performances by first-choice keepers Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen.
Maignan is much in demand for his impeccable shot-stopping and leadership. He has established himself as a regular at Milan after joining the club from Lille in 2021. Despite Milan’s hesitation to let the goalkeeper leave, their inability to advance contract talks left the door of opportunity ajar for aspirants.
The Blues’ move will see them seize an opportunity to acquire a world-class goalkeeper before taking a step back into the UEFA Champions League. It is AC Milan’s decision now. They must choose between losing Maignan for free in 2026 and trying to negotiate the transfer fee this summer.
Chelsea’s goalkeepers shortlist
Apart from pursuing AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, Chelsea also have several other top goalkeepers on their shopping list. This includes Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel. The 27-year-old Switzerland international goalkeeper has been impressing in the Bundesliga, and his agent was reportedly in London to secure a transfer.
Another alternative is Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, who is also under interest from the Bridge. The 26-year-old Irish international reportedly wants first-team football on a consistent basis, and the Reds want more than £20 million for his services.
Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford and Lucas Chevalier are also on the Blues’ shortlist of targets. Meanwhile, Porto’s Diogo Costa remains a long-term possibility.
Djordje Petrovic will come back on loan from Strasbourg this summer. His future is left uncertain, with AS Monaco already eyeing him for a signing. Being handed two choices to make, the Blues’ choice will be in club negotiation and planning come next season.