Chelsea Make Official Bid for AC Milan’s Mike Maignan Amid Goalkeeping Overhaul
Chelsea have officially launched a move to bring AC Milan’s star goalkeeper Mike Maignan to Stamford Bridge, submitting an initial offer to secure the services of the highly-rated France international. According to renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Blues have tabled a formal bid to sign the 29-year-old as part of their summer transfer plans under new head coach Enzo Maresca.
Maignan, who joined Milan from Lille in 2021, has established himself as one of Europe’s top goalkeepers over the past few seasons. He played a pivotal role in Lille’s unexpected Ligue 1 triumph during the 2020–21 campaign, keeping a remarkable 21 clean sheets in 38 league appearances — a performance that earned him widespread acclaim and saw him crowned Ligue 1’s Goalkeeper of the Season. His reputation only grew after he moved to Italy, where he quickly adapted to Serie A and helped Milan clinch the Scudetto in his very first season at the San Siro.
His influence extended beyond league competition. Last season, Maignan played a central role in AC Milan’s Italian Super Cup success, further cementing his status as one of the most reliable and composed shot-stoppers on the continent. It’s little wonder that Chelsea view him as their ideal long-term No. 1, especially as they look to reinforce key positions ahead of a busy season that includes both Champions League football and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Romano reports that Chelsea have submitted an official opening offer of approximately £12 million for Maignan’s services. While that figure marks the first formal step in negotiations, it’s currently unclear whether Milan are prepared to accept the offer or view it as falling short of their valuation. As of now, the Italian giants have yet to respond publicly, but internal deliberations are reportedly ongoing.
Despite the uncertainty at club level, signs suggest that Maignan is already preparing for a move to the Premier League. A separate update from Italian journalist Rudy Galetti has revealed that the player has agreed to personal terms with Chelsea. The proposed deal is believed to be a six-year contract worth around £7 million per year, a significant commitment from both club and player. Maignan is said to be enthusiastic about the move and eager to embark on a new chapter in West London.
A New Era Between the Posts at Stamford Bridge
New Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is expected to oversee a reshuffle of the squad this summer, particularly in the goalkeeping department. He currently inherits a bloated roster that includes no fewer than five senior goalkeepers — a situation unlikely to remain unchanged for long.
Among those currently on the books are Robert Sánchez, who featured inconsistently last season, and Serbian international Djordje Petrovic, who showed promise in limited appearances. Youngster Mike Penders, just 19, is seen as a prospect for the future, while Filip Jorgensen remains a fringe option. Kepa Arrizabalaga, once the world’s most expensive goalkeeper, spent last season on loan at Bournemouth and is now reportedly close to completing a permanent switch to Arsenal.
Maignan’s arrival would immediately elevate Chelsea’s goalkeeping corps, giving them a clear first-choice option with proven pedigree in both domestic and European competitions. At 29, he would also bring valuable experience and leadership to what is otherwise a youthful Chelsea squad. His presence would be especially vital as the team prepares for a return to the UEFA Champions League after a two-season absence, as well as a rare appearance in the Club World Cup — a competition the club last contested in 2022, winning the title.
Building for Ambition
Chelsea’s ambitions under Maresca are clear: to consolidate their place among England’s elite, build on last season’s fourth-place Premier League finish, and make an impression on the continental stage. While the club has invested heavily in young talents over recent windows, the Maignan pursuit signals a shift toward blending youth with experience — a necessary balance if they are to compete across multiple fronts.
At 6’3″ with superb reflexes, elite shot-stopping ability, and exceptional distribution, Maignan fits the profile of a modern goalkeeper capable of commanding his box while also initiating attacks. His track record — which includes three Goalkeeper of the Season awards across Ligue 1 and Serie A — makes him one of the most decorated players in his position currently on the market.
The next steps now rest with AC Milan. Should they deem Chelsea’s offer acceptable, Maignan could soon become one of the most high-profile goalkeeping additions in the Premier League this summer. But if they demand a higher fee, Chelsea will have to decide whether to increase their bid or explore alternative targets.
What is certain, however, is that Chelsea have identified their man. And in Mike Maignan, they see not just a goalkeeper, but a leader and foundation piece in their quest to return to the summit of English and European football.