AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan has reportedly expressed his desire to join Chelsea this summer despite new manager Max Allegri's wish for him to remain at the San Siro. The French international is a prime target for the Blues, who have been left unimpressed by Robert Sanchez's inconsistent performances.
While Chelsea do have Filip Jorgensen and Dordje Petrovic as potential replacements, with Kepa Arrizabalaga set to move to Arsenal, Enzo Maresca is keen to secure a new first-choice goalkeeper. Maignan has earned 32 caps for France and taken over from Hugo Lloris as the country's top goalkeeper.
Currently considered one of the world's best goalkeepers, he seems ready to take the next step in his career by moving to the Premier League.
L'Equipe reports that Maignan is "determined" to make the move to Stamford Bridge, even after Allegri told the stopper he wants to rely on him for the upcoming season in a private conversation.
The report further states that Chelsea and AC Milan are in discussions about a transfer and hope to finalise it before the Club World Cup, which kicks off in the United States next week.
A decision is expected "in the coming days", but Maignan has assured AC Milan that he is prepared to honour his contract until 2026 if an agreement cannot be reached.
However, with Maignan potentially departing on a free transfer, Milan may opt to secure a transfer fee while they still have the chance.
Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport has suggested that Chelsea may need to table a £15million offer to secure the 29-year-old's services, although other sources indicate a £13m bid could suffice.
Chelsea have already completed the signing of Ipswich Town forward Liam Delap after meeting his £30 million release clause and are eager to further strengthen their ranks.
Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens, a former Chelsea academy player, is reportedly another target for the Blues.
The club's inaugural match at the Club World Cup will be against Los Angeles FC on June 16, followed by a clash with Brazilian outfit Flamengo on June 20. Their final group stage game will be against ES Tunis on June 25.