Chelsea's Goalkeeping Pursuit: Aiming for AC Milan's Maignan

Jun 3, 2025 at 1:33 PM
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Chelsea has shown keen interest in acquiring France's goalkeeper Mike Maignan from AC Milan. Since joining Milan in 2021, the 29-year-old has consistently performed well. Additionally, following Hugo Lloris' retirement from international football in January 2023, Maignan became France's preferred choice. Chelsea believes that securing Maignan is feasible as he shows interest in moving to Stamford Bridge. The club has faced challenges in finding a reliable long-term goalkeeper since their £71m acquisition of Kepa Arrizabalaga in 2018. Subsequent signings like Edouard Mendy, Robert Sanchez, Djordje Petrovic, and Filip Jorgensen have not convinced the management.

Potential Transition for Maignan

Maignan's potential move to Chelsea stems from his impressive performances at AC Milan and his role as France's first-choice keeper. His strong presence in both domestic and international arenas makes him an attractive option for clubs seeking stability in goal. With Chelsea's recent struggles to secure a dependable goalkeeper, Maignan’s interest in joining could significantly bolster their squad. This transition would represent a strategic move by Chelsea to address their ongoing goalkeeping issues.

Since joining AC Milan in 2021, Maignan established himself as a key player through consistent performances. His skills and reliability on the field earned him the trust of both his club and national team. Following Hugo Lloris’ retirement, Maignan seamlessly stepped into the role as France’s primary goalkeeper. Recognizing this opportunity, Chelsea aims to capitalize on Maignan’s availability. His willingness to join Stamford Bridge aligns with Chelsea’s objective of enhancing their defensive lineup. This scenario presents a win-win situation where Maignan gains a new challenge, and Chelsea acquires much-needed stability in goal.

Chelsea's Goalkeeping Challenges

Since purchasing Kepa Arrizabalaga in 2018, Chelsea has struggled to find a reliable goalkeeper. Despite significant investments, including signing Edouard Mendy who later moved to Al-Ahli, the club continues to search for consistency. Recent additions such as Robert Sanchez, Djordje Petrovic, and Filip Jorgensen have yet to convince the management fully. This highlights the urgency for Chelsea to secure a goalkeeper capable of anchoring their defense effectively.

Chelsea’s quest for a dependable goalkeeper began when they acquired Kepa Arrizabalaga for a world-record fee. However, subsequent issues arose; Edouard Mendy’s departure to Al-Ahli left a void, while Kepa spent time on loan at Real Madrid and Bournemouth. Further signings included Robert Sanchez, Djordje Petrovic, and Filip Jorgensen, but these players have not provided the necessary assurance. Petrovic spent last season at Strasbourg on loan, while Sanchez and Jorgensen had mixed experiences within the Chelsea setup. Consequently, the club remains determined to address this critical need, viewing Maignan as a promising solution to their prolonged goalkeeping dilemma.