Chelsea are reportedly setting their sights on securing AC Milan’s renowned shot-stopper Mike Maignan as they seek a high-calibre upgrade for their goalkeeping ranks ahead of the forthcoming Club World Cup. Manager Enzo Maresca, dissatisfied with Robert Sanchez’s performances last season, is seemingly keen on introducing a new first-choice goalkeeper.
The Blues, who already boast a cadre of goalkeepers including Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, Djordje Petrovic, and the new addition, 19-year-old Mike Penders from Genk, appear poised to make Maignan an offer he can’t refuse. Despite having several talents at their disposal, Chelsea are yet to establish a clear number one goalkeeper, and the acquisition of Maignan could be the solution.
Maignan, a 29-year-old French international with a reputation for reliability between the sticks, has a contract with Milan running until 2026. However, with no new agreement in place, his current situation has catalysed interest from the London club. Over his tenure with the Rossoneri, since joining from Lille in 2021, Maignan has consistently delivered commendable performances, maintaining 13 clean sheets this past season despite Milan’s underwhelming eighth-place finish in Serie A.
With Chelsea’s imminent participation in the Club World Cup in the United States, the pressure mounts to bolster their squad. Meanwhile, Filip Jorgensen proved his mettle by assisting Chelsea to their Conference League triumph last week, standing in as the number two and cup keeper. Petrovic’s return to Stamford Bridge following an impressive loan at Strasbourg adds yet more depth to their goalkeeping roster, while young Penders is expected to gain experience on loan elsewhere.
In parallel, Chelsea have also chosen not to pursue a permanent move for Jadon Sancho, who will return to Manchester United post-loan, costing the Blues a £5 million penalty fee. Instead, they’ve turned their attention to another ambitious move, discussions are underway for a potential £50 million deal to bring Borussia Dortmund’s rising star, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, to Stamford Bridge.
Overall, Maresca’s strategic aspirations to strengthen Chelsea’s squad underscore the club’s commitment to reclaiming their place amongst Europe’s elite.
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