French international goalkeeper Mike Maignan is reportedly determined to part ways with AC Milan during the upcoming summer transfer window, with Chelsea emerging as his preferred destination. According to multiple sources, Maignan has already expressed his desire to leave San Siro and continue his career in the English Premier League.
From Lille to Milan: A Key Figure in Rossoneri’s Revival
Mike Maignan joined AC Milan in the summer of 2021, making the switch from Lille to replace Gianluigi Donnarumma, who left on a free transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. The 29-year-old goalkeeper quickly established himself as a crucial figure in the Milan squad with his commanding presence, quick reflexes, and exceptional ball distribution.
Sіnсе dоnnіng the Milan jersey, Mаіgnаn hаѕ featured іn 163 соmреtіtіvе matches, rеgіѕtеrіng 59 сlеаn ѕhееtѕ and conceding 170 gоаlѕ. His performances between the posts have been instrumental in Milan’s recent success, including clinching the Serie A title in the 2021/22 season and lifting the Supercoppa Italiana in 2024.
Maignan’s consistent displays have not gone unnoticed, with Chelsea identifying him as a top target to bolster their squad for the new campaign.
Chelsea’s Goalkeeping Crisis: Maignan the Ideal Solution
The Blues are currently in search of a reliable first-choice goalkeeper, as both Robert Sánchez and Filip Jörgensen have failed to meet expectations. New manager Enzo Maresca, who recently took charge at Stamford Bridge, is believed to be unconvinced by the options currently available to him.
Chelsea’s ambition is clear—they aim to secure a top-tier shot-stopper before the start of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off this June. The signing of Mike Maignan is seen as a priority, with the club’s scouting department and transfer team working to finalize the deal in the coming weeks.
According to Ben Jacobs, a journalist for GiveMeSport and talkSPORT, Chelsea could land Maignan for a relatively modest fee in today’s transfer market. Reports suggest that a bid in the region of £20–25 million would be sufficient to convince AC Milan to part ways with their No. 1 goalkeeper.
Frustration at Milan: Lack of European Football a Key Factor
One of thе drіvіng forces bеhіnd Mаіgnаn’ѕ decision tо leave арреаrѕ tо bе AC Milan’s fаіlurе tо ԛuаlіfу for European соmреtіtіоnѕ nеxt ѕеаѕоn. As a highly ambitious player with aspirations of competing at the highest level, including the UEFA Champions League, Maignan views a move to Chelsea as the right step for his career.
Although Chelsea had a turbulent season, they are rebuilding under Maresca and are expected to be competitive in Europe, especially with the addition of experienced players like Maignan. For the French goalkeeper, this move could also boost his chances of securing the starting spot for France ahead of major international tournaments.
Potential Domino Effect at Milan
If Maignan’s transfer to Chelsea materializes, AC Milan will face another major rebuilding task. Losing a key player like Maignan would mark the second significant departure from the club this summer, following reports that midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is close to sealing a transfer to Manchester City.
This summer could signify a transitional period for Milan, as they seek to reshape their squad and remain competitive both in domestic and future European campaigns.
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