Chelsea Set Sights on AC Milan’s Mike Maignan as Enzo Maresca’s Ideal Goalkeeper
In a bold move to strengthen their squad for the 2025-26 season, Chelsea have initiated talks with AC Milan to secure the services of French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, a player manager Enzo Maresca considers the perfect fit for his tactical vision. Sources close to the club confirm that the 29-year-old shot-stopper has emerged as a key transfer target, with Maresca personally approving the pursuit as Chelsea aim to solidify their goalkeeping options.
Maignan, widely regarded as one of Europe’s elite goalkeepers, has been a cornerstone of AC Milan’s success since joining from Lille in 2021. His commanding presence, exceptional shot-stopping ability, and proficiency in playing out from the back have made him a standout performer in Serie A. These qualities align seamlessly with Maresca’s possession-based, high-pressing system, which demands a goalkeeper comfortable with the ball at his feet and capable of initiating attacks from deep positions.
Chelsea’s interest comes at a pivotal moment, as Maignan’s contract with Milan is set to expire in 2026. Negotiations between the goalkeeper and the Rossoneri have reportedly stalled, creating an opportunity for the Blues to swoop in. While Milan remain keen to extend Maignan’s deal, the prospect of a significant transfer fee could tempt the Italian giants to cash in, especially with the risk of losing him for free in less than two years.
The pursuit of Maignan reflects Chelsea’s ambition to build a squad tailored to Maresca’s philosophy. Since taking charge, the former Leicester City manager has emphasized the need for players who can execute his tactical demands with precision. Maignan, who has earned 22 caps for France and was part of their 2018 World Cup-winning squad, ticks all the boxes. His ability to read the game, make crucial saves, and contribute to build-up play has drawn comparisons to some of the world’s best goalkeepers.
Chelsea’s scouting department has long admired Maignan, with the club reportedly monitoring him during his time at Lille and throughout his tenure at Milan. The Blues see the current situation as an ideal opportunity to secure a long-term solution between the posts. While Chelsea’s current goalkeepers, including Robert Sánchez and Djordje Petrović, have shown promise, Maresca believes Maignan’s experience and skill set could elevate the team to new heights.
Sources indicate that initial contact has been made between Chelsea and Milan, though no formal offer has been tabled. Discussions are at an early stage, with the transfer fee likely to be a significant point of negotiation. Maignan’s market value is estimated to be in the region of €50-60 million, a figure that could rise given his importance to Milan and his contract situation.
Maresca’s approval of Maignan as a priority target underscores Chelsea’s intent to act decisively in the transfer market. The club’s hierarchy is eager to back their manager, who has already begun reshaping the squad to compete at the highest level in both domestic and European competitions. A move for Maignan would signal their ambition to challenge for major honors in the coming seasons.
However, Chelsea face potential challenges in securing the deal. Milan are reluctant to lose their star goalkeeper and may push for a new contract to fend off interest from the Premier League side. Additionally, Maignan’s focus on performing for both club and country could delay any decision until the summer transfer window.
For now, Chelsea remain firmly in the race, with Maresca’s vision driving their pursuit of one of Europe’s finest goalkeepers. As talks progress, fans will be watching closely to see if Maignan becomes the latest piece in the Blues’ evolving puzzle under their ambitious manager.
