Chelsea’s Enzo Maresca at a press conference (Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Chelsea and Bayern Munich are preparing to sign AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
Both European giants are said to be closely monitoring the France international’s situation as he enters the final stages of his contract at the San Siro.
Maninan, now 30 years old, is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in world football.
His calmness, sharp reflexes and leadership between the posts made him an essential figure for both club and country.
Chelsea target reluctant to sign AC Milan’s new contract
However, Milan faces a tough battle to maintain first place. The Frenchman’s current contract expires in June 2026 and renewal negotiations are reportedly at an impasse.
La Gazzetta dello Sport report that Maignan is reluctant to sign a new contract, with salary expectations and Milan’s sporting direction becoming major obstacles.
Both Chelsea and Bayern Munich are patiently waiting for the situation to develop.
If Maignan refuses to extend his contract, he will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement from as early as January 2026, paving the way for a potential free transfer next summer.
For Chelsea, the signing of Meignan comes amid continued uncertainty surrounding the club’s goalkeeping department.
Roberto Sanchez’s instability has left coach Enzo Maresca looking for a more experienced and dominant presence in goal.
Maignan’s proven track record in the Champions League and Serie A makes him the perfect candidate to bring stability to a team still in transition.
Bayern Munich blocks Chelsea’s bid to sign Maignan
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich see Maignan as the ideal successor to Manuel Neuer, whose legendary spell at Bayern is coming to an end.
Bayern scouts reportedly compiled a glowing report on Maignan, impressed by his distribution, communication and ability to organize the defensive line, which reflected Neuer’s prime years.
Maignan’s performance with the France national team, coached by Didier Deschamps, also increased his reputation on the international stage.
There seems little hope that AC Milan will retain him. Clubs’ financial structures make it difficult to match the salaries offered by Europe’s elite, and both Chelsea and Bayern are prepared to offer much better deals than Milan.
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