Jul 23, 2023; Pasadena, California, USA; Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jose Paixao (7) scores a goal against AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan (16) and defender Simon Kj¾r (24) in the second half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

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Chelsea Ready To Reignite Interest in AC Milan Goalkeeper Mike Maignan

Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation is back under the spotlight after Robert Sanchez’s red card against Manchester United. After Chelsea’s defeat against the Red Devils, reports suggest that the Blues could once again target AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan. Sanchez was sent off just five minutes into the clash at Old Trafford for a challenge outside the box on Bryan Mbeumo.

It forced Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca to reshuffle his side early. United went on to take the lead soon after. While Sanchez will only serve a one-game suspension in the Carabao Cup against Lincoln City, the incident has raised questions about Chelsea’s long-term plans between the posts.

The Blues made Mike Maignan a priority target over the summer, with Milan setting a valuation of around £25-30 million for the 30-year-old. Chelsea weighed up a deal but opted not to press forward at the time. Sources later revealed that Maignan was open to a move to Stamford Bridge, but the two clubs were far apart on price valuation.

The transfer mistake that haunts Enzo Maresca. Chelsea refused to commit to the numbers involved for Mike Maignan. They saw Maignan as worth £12.7million due to only having 1 year remaining on his current contract at the age of 30. AC Milan wanted £21m. (via @kierangill_DM) pic.twitter.com/FrmmlF7yHT
— ChelsTransfer (@ChelsTransfer) September 21, 2025

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Chelsea Reignite Interest in Mike Maignan

New Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri was a key figure in keeping Maignan at San Siro in the summer. Yet, talks over a new contract have stalled, creating an opportunity for Chelsea to strike. Meanwhile, Maresca is understood to be a huge admirer of Maignan’s attributes, particularly his distribution and composure with the ball at his feet.

Also Read: Who Was Matt Beard? Lasting Legacy of the Liverpool Manager Who Passes Away at Only 47

Notably, Maignan is regarded as one of the best all-round keepers in Europe. The French shot-stopper is entering the final year of his Milan contract. From January, he will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside Italy. This has opened the door for Chelsea to sign the goalkeeper on a free transfer at the end of the season.

AC Milan

Chelsea

Enzo Maresca

Massimiliano Allegri

Mike Maignan

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.