Maignan to Chelsea collapses: Blues refuse Milan’s £21m demand ahead of Club World Cup | OneFootball

Chelsea have abandoned their pursuit of AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

The Premier League club walked away after failing to meet Milan’s valuation, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The deal collapsed ahead of the Club World Cup. AC Milan demanded around £21 million for their captain, who has one year left on his contract.

No official bid was made, as Chelsea refused to pay what they called a ‘Club World Cup tax’.

Maignan was keen to join Chelsea. He informed Milan he would not renew his deal, which expires in June 2026 (h/t Sky Sports News’ Kaveh Solhekol).

Chelsea’s goalkeeping department already includes Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, Djordje Petrovic, Mike Penders and Kepa Arrizabalaga.

The club had not planned to recruit a goalkeeper until Maignan was offered. Romano confirmed Chelsea’s trust in their current options, ruling out a summer signing in this position.

Milan’s stance was influenced by manager Massimiliano Allegri’s desire to retain Maignan.

With tensions rising, the Rossoneri may attempt to reopen contract talks, although relations remain strained.

The club’s next steps with their star goalkeeper are unclear following the failed transfer.

The Maignan deal marks a shift for Chelsea’s transfer strategy. The club will rely on their existing goalkeepers for the upcoming Club World Cup.