Chelsea’s pursuit of a new world-class goalkeeper nearly saw them land AC Milan star Mike Maignan during the last summer transfer window. According to reports, the Blues submitted an official offer worth around €15 million to secure the French shot-stopper.
However, AC Milan rejected the proposal immediately, emphasizing Maignan’s untouchable status within the squad. More than just a goalkeeper, the 30-year-old has been wearing the captain’s armband and remains an irreplaceable pillar in Max Allegri’s tactical system. His leadership and commanding presence between the posts have been critical in keeping Milan competitive at the top end of Serie A.
Yet dеѕріtе Mіlаn’ѕ firm ѕtаnсе, the uncertainty ѕurrоundіng Mаіgnаn’ѕ соntrасt ѕіtuаtіоn соntіnuеѕ to fuel transfer rumors. Sоurсеѕ іn Itаlу ѕuggеѕt Chеlѕеа аrе kееріng сlоѕе tаbѕ аnd соuld even ѕwоор fоr him on a frее transfer іf Milan fаіl tо rеасh an аgrееmеnt.
Contract Talks at a Standstill
Maignan’s current deal runs until June 2026, but negotiations over an extension have stalled for months. Reports from Calciomercato.com reveal that the talks have made little to no progress, with disagreements emerging over both salary demands and contract length.
This deadlock leaves Milan in a vulnerable position. Losing a player of Maignan’s stature without financial compensation would be a massive blow—especially given that he has arguably been one of the best goalkeepers in Europe over the past few seasons.
“Contract talks have been stagnant for months and the chances of an agreement are slim,” wrote the Italian outlet, highlighting just how tense the situation has become.
Chelsea Eyeing a Transfer Jackpot
For Chelsea, the situation could represent a golden opportunity. Should Maignan run down his contract and leave San Siro for free, the Blues could secure one of the world’s top goalkeepers without paying a transfer fee—a move that would be hailed as a transfer market masterstroke.
Chelsea’s need for a reliable long-term No.1 has been well documented. Current options like Robert Sánchez have struggled for consistency, and the club’s hierarchy has been seeking a high-profile replacement who combines leadership, experience, and top-level ability.
Maignan fits that description perfectly. Since joining Milan from Lille in 2021 for around €16.4 million, he has seamlessly replaced Gianluigi Donnarumma, who left for PSG on a free transfer. Ironically, Milan now face the possibility of losing another elite goalkeeper under similar circumstances.
Maignan’s Peak Years Ahead
At 30, Maignan is entering what many consider the prime years for a goalkeeper. He has the experience of leading Milan in Serie A, the Champions League, and at the international level with France. For Chelsea, signing him would mean not only solving their goalkeeping concerns but also adding a natural leader capable of organizing the defense.
If a free transfer does materialize, it could go down as one of the smartest acquisitions in Chelsea’s recent history. Meanwhile, AC Milan risk repeating a painful mistake that previously cost them Donnarumma, potentially weakening their squad for years to come.
ALSO READ :
- SBOTOP: Six-Game Suspension for Luis Suárez Following Controversial Spitting in Leagues Cup Final
- SBOTOP: Monaco Defender Was Once on AC Milan’s Radar Before the Club Signed Odogu
- SBOTOP: Szoboszlai Shines in Alexander-Arnold Role with Stunning Free-Kick as Arsenal Falter – Premier League Hits and Misses
