The goalkeeper Chelsea must buy: Why Mike Maignan is the non-negotiable solution | OneFootball

Chelsea’s interest in Mike Maignan has gathered pace this summer, but negotiations with AC Milan have not been straightforward.

With just over a year remaining on the French goalkeeper’s contract, the Serie A club are holding out for a premium fee, which appears to be giving Chelsea concern. It should not.

After a season of uncertainty between the posts, Chelsea cannot afford to hesitate. Robert Sanchez was the first choice in the league for most of the campaign, while Filip Jorgensen featured in Europe.

Sanchez struggled to adapt to the demands of playing out from the back, drawing frustration from supporters and prompting warnings from Enzo Maresca.

Maignan is a significant upgrade. The 29-year-old is not only one of the most complete goalkeepers in Europe, but also a natural fit for the modern, methodical build-up style that Maresca is committed to.

His 84.7 percent pass accuracy in Serie A last season dwarfs Sanchez’s 66.4% in the Premier League. Even Jorgensen, who is more comfortable with the ball, managed 82.4% – still shy of Maignan’s level.

Beyond his distribution, Maignan offers commanding presence, elite reflexes and leadership qualities that have seen him take on captaincy duties at Milan and become France’s undisputed number one.

He is experienced, mentally assured and, crucially, capable of elevating those around him.

In an interview with GQ Italia last year, Maignan described himself as ‘a modern goalkeeper’ who blends ‘new and old school’ attributes – a mix that perfectly suits the demands of Maresca’s system.

His self-confidence is evident: “There are many very strong goalkeepers out there, that’s why I keep working hard,” he said. “However, I only focus on myself: I know my potential, the best I can give.”

That level of conviction and quality is exactly what Chelsea need. Since the departure of Thibaut Courtois, the club has lacked a consistent, elite presence in goal.

Kepa Arrizabalaga and Edouard Mendy had their moments, but neither delivered the long-term solution the club craved. Sanchez and Jorgensen have also failed.

If Chelsea are serious about returning to the top, signing Maignan is not a luxury – it is a necessity. Whatever fee Milan are demanding, Maignan has the quality to justify it.