Mike Maignan. (Getty)
Chelsea’s search for a reliable long-term No.1 could soon lead them back to a familiar target.
The Blues pushed hard to sign Mike Maignan last summer as they looked to finally solve their ongoing goalkeeping problems, but a deal ultimately failed to materialise after the club refused to match AC Milan’s relatively modest £21 million valuation.
Since then, Chelsea’s issues between the sticks have hardly disappeared. Neither Robert Sanchez nor Filip Jorgensen have fully convinced, leaving the position firmly on the club’s list of priorities heading into another major rebuild.
Meanwhile, Maignan has rediscovered top form in Italy and re-established himself as one of Europe’s standout goalkeepers, reigniting Chelsea’s interest ahead of the summer window.
Chelsea Waiting on Two Key Maignan Conditions
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea are once again monitoring Mike Maignan’s situation closely and could reignite their pursuit if circumstances shift at AC Milan.
The France international is reportedly open to reassessing his future, but only if two major factors go against Milan in the coming months — failure to qualify for the Champions League and continued uncertainty surrounding manager Massimiliano Allegri.
Chelsea are believed to be ready to act should instability emerge at San Siro.
After a difficult couple of seasons by his own high standards, Maignan enjoyed an outstanding campaign this term, producing 13 clean sheets in 35 Serie A appearances while reasserting himself as a commanding presence both on and off the pitch. His distribution and leadership have again been among the strongest parts of his game.
Ironically, one potential complication for Chelsea is their own European situation. Maignan is thought to prioritise Champions League football if he leaves Milan, meaning the Blues may need to secure qualification themselves to stand a realistic chance of landing him.
Even so, with Chelsea still desperate for stability in goal, the club appear determined not to let the opportunity slip away twice if the conditions finally align this summer.
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