Chelsea have rekindled their interest in signing Mike Maignan from AC Milan, and believe they can land him on a free transfer.
Milan have found themselves in a difficult position when it comes to Maignan’s future, given that he is on an expiring deal and seems to be back to his best form this season. A number of clubs are believed to be circling, with some familiar names linked.
Chelsea back in for Maignan
According to Sky Switzerland, Chelsea are ‘accelerating behind the scenes’ and are ‘actively working to reorganise their goalkeeping department’. They want to create a space for Maignan to fill, a player that they pursued in the most recent summer window but without success.
The departure of Filip Jorgensen is being seriously considered. The young goalkeeper – signed with the future in mind – could leave London to make room for a world-class keeper, a profile the management have been seeking for months.
Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images
Chelsea have reopened contact with Maignan’s representatives after learning that the Frenchman does not intend to extend his contract with Milan. The Blues are not the only team interested, but ‘appear to be the most determined club’ at present.
For his part, the Frenchman has never hidden his attraction to the Premier League. Maignan has opened the door to discussions and remains very keen on the idea of heading to Stamford Bridge, to fulfil his ‘childhood dream’ of playing in England.
Juventus are also in the running and are closely monitoring developments. The Turin-based club see Maignan as a potential successor to Michele Di Gregorio, but Chelsea have a sizeable advantage at the moment.