‘Flattery of Chelsea’ – Blues keen on impressive signing, feels a difficult one to pull off

Chelsea have AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan on their transfer agenda, according to Calciomercato.

The Blues sold Édouard Mendy to Al-Ahli and allowed Kepa Arrizabalaga to join Real Madrid on loan in the last window, and signed Robert Sánchez from Brighton & Hove Albion.

Sánchez is the first-choice goalkeeper for Mauricio Pochettino but that doesn’t seem to stop Chelsea links with Maignan.

The report focuses on the Serie A side’s plans to extend the 28-year-old’s deal, and they face threats from the west London club and Paris Saint-Germain.

Maignan’s current deal expires in 2026 and the Rossoneri’s idea is to extend it until 2028. The outlet states the France international is currently among the best five goalkeepers in the world and has shown this with his displays for both club and country.

This has convinced Stefano Pioli’s side to renew his deal and the talks between the two parties started 10 days ago. It’s claimed Maignan’s agents are expected to arrive in Italy to hold talks with Milan in the next 15-20 days.

Calciomercato state the player earns €2.8m per year and Milan want to double it with a new deal. However, he’s demanding a deal worth around €6-7m annually.

The report adds Maignan’s priority is to continue at the San Siro despite the ‘flattery from Chelsea’ and having the possibility to return to PSG. This will make it difficult for the Blues to take him away from Milan.