AC Milan are close to securing the long-term future of goalkeeper Mike Maignan, overtaking Chelsea in the race to sign the France international, according to respected journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
After months of negotiations, Milan and Maignan are now on the verge of finalizing a new contract that would keep the goalkeeper at the club until June 2031. The breakthrough reportedly came after the two sides resolved outstanding salary issues.
Milan and Maignan Near Agreement After Long Negotiations
Gianluca Di Marzio reports that the agreement is now in its final stages, with Maignan set to earn an annual salary of approximately €5.7 million (around R$35.8 million at current exchange rates).
With the financial terms agreed, Maignan’s representatives have given their approval, effectively clearing the final hurdle for the renewal. The development represents a significant boost for Milan, who were facing strong competition from top European clubs.
Chelsea and Bayern Munich Miss Out
Chelsea had been considered one of the leading contenders to sign Maignan, monitoring the situation closely as talks with Milan dragged on. Bayern Munich were also interested, as they continue their search for a long-term successor to club legend Manuel Neuer.
However, Milan’s progress in negotiations has now shifted the balance decisively in their favor, leaving rival clubs on the sidelines.
Key Player for Milan and France
Maignan’s contract situation had become one of the most closely followed sagas in Italian football, particularly given his importance at both club and international level. The goalkeeper is widely expected to be France’s first-choice starter at the 2026 World Cup, further underlining his elite status.
Mike Maignan’s Rise to the Top
A product of Paris Saint-Germain’s youth academy, Maignan truly rose to prominence during his time at Lille, where his performances earned him a move to AC Milan. Now in his fifth season with the Rossoneri, he has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in Serie A.
Following Hugo Lloris’ retirement from international football, Maignan became France’s undisputed No. 1. After starting at Euro 2024, he is expected to remain the national team’s first-choice goalkeeper heading into the World Cup.
With a renewal now imminent, Milan look set to secure one of their most important pillars for the long term, closing the door on Chelsea and other European giants.
Miguel Manjate is a football journalist and editor covering the Premier League, European competitions, and transfer news, with a strong focus on match analysis and data-driven reporting.
