Chelsea and Manchester United are monitoring Mike Maignan’s situation closely after talks between the French goalkeeper and AC Milan over a new contract reportedly stalled.
The 29-year-old has established himself as one of the finest goalkeepers in Serie A since joining AC Milan from Lille in 2021. However, uncertainty over his future at the San Siro has put several European giants on alert, with the Premier League duo preparing potential moves this summer. Milan are believed to value Maignan at around €40 million.
Maignan’s Impact at AC Milan
Since arriving in Italy, Maignan has been a standout performer for the Rossoneri, even as the club experienced mixed fortunes domestically and in Europe. Across more than 150 appearances for Milan, he has kept 56 clean sheets and conceded 163 goals, consistently showcasing his shot-stopping abilities and leadership.
His performances have helped Milan secure the Serie A title during his debut season, and he was subsequently named in the division’s Team of the Season. Despite Milan’s struggles at times, Maignan’s reputation as a top-tier goalkeeper has only strengthened, drawing interest from across the continent.
Premier League Clubs Circle Ahead of Summer Window
Chelsea’s pursuit of a new first-choice goalkeeper continues, with several recent signings failing to make a lasting impact at Stamford Bridge. With Maignan available for a reasonable fee relative to his quality, the Blues see him as an ideal candidate to solidify their defence ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.
Manchester United are also in the market for a new goalkeeper after an inconsistent season from Andre Onana. Altay Bayindir has yet to convince as a long-term alternative, making Maignan a priority target as the Red Devils seek to rebuild under their current management. The Frenchman’s stalled negotiations with Milan have provided both English clubs with renewed encouragement.
A Proven Track Record in European Football
Maignan’s career began in the youth ranks at Paris Saint-Germain, although he never made a senior appearance for the Parisians. In 2015, he moved to Lille for a modest €1 million fee, eventually becoming their first-choice goalkeeper and helping them to a Ligue 1 title in the 2020-21 season.
His move to Milan for €15 million the following summer proved a masterstroke, with Maignan playing a crucial role in their title-winning campaign. Internationally, he has earned 37 youth caps for France and debuted for the senior team in 2020. He was included in France’s squads for UEFA Euro 2020 and Euro 2024, underlining his status as one of Europe’s most reliable goalkeepers.
Site Opinion
Mike Maignan represents a rare opportunity in the transfer market: a proven, top-level goalkeeper potentially available at a cut price. His commanding presence, excellent distribution, and consistency would undoubtedly improve either Chelsea or Manchester United, both of whom have struggled for stability between the posts.
From AC Milan’s perspective, losing a player of Maignan’s calibre would be a significant blow. However, if contract talks remain at an impasse, the club may be forced to cash in rather than risk losing him for less down the line. For the player, a move to the Premier League could offer a fresh challenge at the peak of his career, in a league where his talents would be fully showcased.
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