Mike Maignan has informed AC Milan he wants to join Chelsea and will not sign a new deal. What this means for Chelsea’s Club World Cup hopes.
The development signals a huge shift in Chelsea’s summer transfer plans and could unlock their ambitions ahead of the Club World Cup.
Mike Maignan Tells Milan He Wants Chelsea Move — No New Contract Planned
In a major twist, Mike Maignan has reportedly informed AC Milan he will not sign a new contract and wants a move to Chelsea, per Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol.
The development signals a huge shift in Chelsea’s summer transfer plans and could unlock their ambitions ahead of the Club World Cup.
🧤 Chelsea and Mike Maignan: A Transfer Breakthrough
Just days after reports emerged that AC Milan and new coach Massimiliano Allegri were blocking Maignan’s exit, the French goalkeeper has made his stance clear:
• No new deal at Milan.
• A desire to move to Stamford Bridge.
For Chelsea, who have been quietly working to strengthen key positions ahead of a crucial season, this is a breakthrough. Mike Maignan, seen as a vital upgrade over Robert Sánchez and Djordje Petrovic, could now be closer to a move than ever.
Maignan’s current deal runs until 2026, but with only one year left on his Milan contract by next summer, the Italian club faces the risk of losing him for a lower fee — or even for free in 2026 if they don’t sell now.
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🔥 Why Maignan Is Essential for Chelsea’s Club World Cup Campaign
Chelsea are not just building for domestic success — they’re preparing for the first-ever 32-team FIFA Club World Cup. And the margins at that tournament will be razor-thin.
Unlike a Premier League season where mistakes can be corrected over 38 games, the Club World Cup is straight knockout.
One bad day at the back — one mistake from a goalkeeper — can end the dream.
With Real Madrid already registering new signing Trent Alexander-Arnold specifically for the Club World Cup, Chelsea know the importance of moving decisively.
Signing Mike Maignan gives them:
• World-class shot-stopping ability.
• Big-game leadership — France’s No.1 keeper with a history of delivering in finals.
• Elite distribution — crucial for Chelsea’s build-from-the-back style under Enzo Maresca.
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💰 Chelsea’s Next Steps
With Maignan pushing for the move, the onus is now on Chelsea and Milan to strike a deal.
• Milan had been holding out for around €30–35 million ($34–38 million).
• Chelsea may now try to negotiate the price down, but with Maignan’s stance clear, Milan’s leverage has weakened.
The clock is ticking with the Club World Cup registration deadlines fast approaching. Chelsea’s decision-makers know what’s at stake — and they won’t want to miss this window to secure their No.1 for the tournament.
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🏁 Final Word: Mike Maignan’s Decision Changes Everything for Chelsea
In Maignan, Chelsea see not just a short-term upgrade — but a goalkeeper who can be a cornerstone for a new era.
Now that Maignan himself has made it clear he wants Chelsea, the Blues have a golden chance to solve their goalkeeper problem — and boost their Club World Cup chances in one move.
The next few days could define Chelsea’s entire summer — and maybe their season.