Chelsea is actively considering relaunching its pursuit of Mike Maignan. During this summer's transfer window, the Blues submitted a formal offer worth less than £25 million to AC Milan, which was rejected by the Italian club. As the new season progresses, the club's management believes that strengthening the goalkeeper position remains a top
priority, thus deciding to reassess the possibility of signing the French international goalkeeper.
Meanwhile, Manchester United has also identified Maignan as one of its key transfer targets. Head coach Rúben Amorim has clearly stated that the team needs a more experienced and ready-made starting goalkeeper than summer signing Bart Verbruggen. Although Man Utd signed Verbruggen from Belgian side Royal Antwerp for £18.2 million before the transfer window closed, the young goalkeeper is yet to make an appearance – the club has fielded Altay Bayındır in all five of its Premier League matches so far.
The 30-year-old Maignan has a contract with AC Milan set to expire in June 2026, a situation that makes him a highly sought-after prospect in the transfer market. The French international boasts extensive experience in top-flight football and the UEFA Champions League, and the potential for a free transfer or a relatively low transfer fee further boosts his appeal.
Chelsea's urgent need for a goalkeeper was laid bare during their 1-2 away defeat to Manchester United last weekend. Starting goalkeeper Robert Sánchez was sent off with a red card early in the game, which immediately put the team at a disadvantage. For Manchester United, André Onana – who was previously on loan at Trabzonspor – has made it clear that he has no intention of returning, which has also spurred the club to speed up its search for a reliable new first-choice goalkeeper.
