Chelsea’s pursuit of AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan during the summer was well-documented.
With Maignan‘s contract expiring next year, the Blues sensed an opportunity to sign him for a cut-price fee.
In the end, though, Chelsea could not agree a deal with Milan and Maignan remained at the San Siro.
Another top goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, was also on the market. However, Chelsea believe Maignan will become a viable option again, and that is allegedly the reason why they did not make a move for the new Manchester City star.
Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Ciancaphoto Studio/Getty ImagesMike Maignan has agreed to give AC Milan his best before leaving on free transfer
Based on reports coming out of Italy, Chelsea have good reason to believe that they can still sign Maignan.
According to Corriere dello Sport, after being denied a move to Stamford Bridge this year, Maignan agreed to give his all to Milan before eventually leaving the club on a free transfer in 2026.
The outlet claims that Milan are not giving up hope of a contract renewal, but the 30-year-old has made his decision.
It is going to take a lot of persuading to convince Maignan to remain part of Massimiliano Allegri’s squad.
Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew recently discussed Chelsea’s goalkeeper situation, claiming that it would concern him if he were in Enzo Maresca‘s shoes right now.
Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty ImagesWhy Chelsea could opt against signing Mike Maignan on a free transfer
All in all, Maignan could be a really exciting market opportunity next summer. The Chelsea Chronicle has been told that Maignan is very much still on Chelsea’s radar.
One thing that the club have to think about, though, is Mike Penders. The 20-year-old is on loan at Strasbourg and doing well there.
If that continues, they could always put their faith in him next season instead of signing Maignan or another goalkeeper.
The arrival of Maignan or return of Penders would likely spell the end for one of Robert Sanchez or Filip Jorgensen.