Chelsea’s Goalkeeper Conundrum: Blues Eye Maignan as Long-Term Solution, But Price Remains a Hurdle

Chelsea’s perennial search for a definitive number one goalkeeper continues, with reports indicating they are in active discussions with AC Milan over the transfer of France international Mike Maignan. The 29-year-old, widely regarded as one of Europe’s top shot-stoppers, has reportedly signaled his interest in a move to Stamford Bridge, especially with Chelsea set to participate in the Champions League next season while Milan will not.

Milan reportedly values Maignan at approximately £25 million, a figure Chelsea are currently unwilling to meet. The Blues are negotiating for a lower fee, likely influenced by Maignan’s contract situation; his current deal with Milan expires in June 2026, meaning he would have just over a year left when the transfer window opens. This provides Chelsea with some leverage, as Milan would be keen to avoid losing a player of his calibre on a free transfer next summer.

Maignan has been a linchpin for AC Milan since his arrival from Lille in 2021, playing a crucial role in their Serie A title win in 2021-22. On the international stage, he has seamlessly stepped into the void left by Hugo Lloris’s retirement in January 2023, becoming France’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper and earning 30 caps since his debut in 2020.

The Blues’ ongoing goalkeeper dilemma is a well-documented saga. Since their world-record £71 million acquisition of Kepa Arrizabalaga in 2018, Chelsea have struggled to find a consistent and reliable presence between the sticks. Edouard Mendy, signed in 2020, provided a temporary solution before his departure to Al-Ahli in 2023. Kepa, meanwhile, has spent the last two seasons on loan at Real Madrid and Bournemouth, with Arsenal now reportedly considering a shock move for the Spaniard with a £5 million release clause.

In recent seasons, Chelsea has brought in Robert Sanchez, Djordje Petrovic, and Filip Jorgensen. However, it appears the club’s hierarchy remains unconvinced by their current options. Petrovic spent last season on loan at Strasbourg, while Sanchez and Jorgensen had spells in the Chelsea first team, but neither has firmly established themselves as the undisputed starter. Marcus Bettinelli and Lucas Bergstrom are also part of the senior goalkeeping contingent.

Chelsea’s pursuit of Maignan highlights their commitment to finally solving this persistent problem and bringing in a proven, top-tier talent to solidify their last line of defense. The coming weeks will determine whether they can bridge the valuation gap with Milan and secure the services of the highly-rated French international.