Chelsea are looking to seize the opportunity to sign Mike Maignan from AC Milan this summer. There is an air of uncertainty regarding the French goalkeeper and his future at the San Siro given there is just over 12 months remaining on his contract.
The Blues have used Robert Sanchez predominantly in the Premier League over the course of this season, with Filip Jorgensen being Enzo Maresca’s go-to man in the Conference League. However, neither have been overly convincing, meaning when an opportunity to sign someone of Maignan’s calibre comes around, it is too good to turn down.
Maignan has established himself as one of Europe’s top goalkeepers in recent years. His imposing presence, quick reflexes and distribution makes him an ideal all-rounder in the modern game. Back in 2024, in an interview with GQ Italia magazine, Maignan explained just why he is regarded at one of the very best in his craft
I’m a modern goalkeeper, but to be a good goalkeeper, you need to know how to mix new and old school,” Maignan said to GQ Italia magazine. “Modernity and old game are the ingredients to achieve the best combination.”
When asked if he is the best goalkeeper in world football, the Chelsea target said: “I won’t tell you no [laughs]… There are many very strong goalkeepers out there, that’s why I keep working hard. However, I only focus on myself: I know my potential, the best I can give.
Of course, given Maresca’s style of play – building out slowly from defence – having a goalkeeper who is strong in possession is absolutely imperative. Unfortunately, Sanchez has not been that man this season and that has frustrated supporters – causing some of them to get on his back during games at Stamford Bridge.
It has turned the atmosphere in SW6 toxic at times with Maresca warning Sanchez if he was to go against his way of playing, then he would be taken off. By all accounts, though, it seems Maignan is a much better fit in this regard.
The French goalkeeper finished the Serie A campaign with an 84.7% pass accuracy, with Sanchez recording a 66.37% average in the Premier League. Jorgensen, meanwhile, is a lot closer to Maignan’s number, with the Dane having an average of 82.4%.
