Chelsea interested in Mike Maignan, but Massimiliano wants the goalkeeper to stay

Massimiliano Allegri considers goalkeeper untouchable as club reopens talks

Chelsea have expressed serious interest in signing Mike Maignan, AC Milan’s star goalkeeper, but manager Massimiliano Allegri is pushing to block the move. According to Italian journalist Nicolò Schira, Allegri has informed Milan’s board that Maignan is non-transferable and essential to the club’s project.

In response, Milan are reportedly reopening negotiations with Maignan’s representatives in an effort to renew his current deal, which runs through June 2026. Talks are expected to intensify with the aim of finalizing a new contract by mid-September.

Chelsea Seeking a Goalkeeper Reinforcement

Chelsea’s management had already contacted both Maignan’s entourage and AC Milan, according to Sky Sport Italia, signaling their intent to make a goalkeeper a top priority in the current transfer window. The West London club is seeking a long-term solution between the posts amid uncertainty over current options.

Maignan’s Role at Milan

Since arriving in the 2021–22 season, Maignan, 30, has firmly established himself as Milan’s No. 1, amassing 163 appearances and even registering three assists — a rare stat for a goalkeeper. Last season marked the busiest of his career, with 53 appearances across all competitions.

Renewal Talks Under Pressure

With just two years remaining on his contract, Maignan would be eligible to negotiate a pre-contract with foreign clubs by January 2026. Milan’s board is keen to avoid that scenario by locking down the French international well before then.

If negotiations stall, Chelsea may yet find a window of opportunity but for now, Milan and Allegri are digging in to keep their first-choice keeper.