Chelsea Legend Urges Blues to Revive Goalkeeper Pursuit as Summer Plans Continue

Chelsea have been encouraged to reignite their interest in AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan as the club continues to shape its squad ahead of the new season.

The Blues have already made positive progress in the summer transfer window, with Marco Palestra edging closer to a move to Stamford Bridge. Attention could now turn to strengthening the goalkeeping department, despite Robert Sanchez ending last season on a high.

Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink believes Maignan would be an ideal addition and has urged the club to make another attempt to sign the France international. Chelsea were heavily linked with the 30-year-old last summer when they explored the possibility of bringing in a new first-choice goalkeeper.

Reports at the time suggested Chelsea were prepared to offer around £13 million for Maignan, whose contract with AC Milan was entering its final stages. However, the Italian club demanded more than £20 million, leading Chelsea to walk away from negotiations rather than meet the asking price.

Since then, Sanchez has responded impressively. The Spanish goalkeeper enjoyed a strong Club World Cup campaign, helping Chelsea lift the trophy while also winning the tournament’s Golden Glove award. His performances have strengthened his case to remain the club’s first-choice goalkeeper heading into the new campaign.

Even so, Maignan continues to be regarded as one of Europe’s top goalkeepers, and speculation over Chelsea’s long-standing interest has not completely disappeared. Whether the Blues decide to revisit the deal could depend on future opportunities in the transfer market and their overall recruitment strategy.

With Chelsea continuing to strengthen key areas of the squad, the goalkeeping position remains one to watch as the summer transfer window unfolds.