Chelsea’s goalkeeper conundrum could finally be nearing a resolution, with reports suggesting the club are confident of landing AC Milan star Mike Maignan on a free transfer next year.

Summer attempts that fell short

The Blues had been actively exploring goalkeeping options before the Club World Cup, with Robert Sanchez struggling to convince as a reliable long-term No.1. Personal terms were even believed to be agreed with Maignan, but AC Milan refused to sanction a move.

Sanchez ultimately kept his place, going on to win the Golden Glove as Chelsea lifted the Club World Cup.

Despite other top-class goalkeepers like Gianluigi Donnarumma and Emi Martinez becoming available later in the summer, Chelsea opted not to reignite their search — a decision that now appears strategic.

Chelsea’s January plan

According to TBR Football, Chelsea still view Maignan as their ideal solution between the sticks.

With the Frenchman yet to sign a contract extension at San Siro, his deal runs out at the end of the season, allowing the Blues to negotiate a pre-contract agreement in January.

This move would represent a major coup for Chelsea, securing one of Europe’s finest goalkeepers without a transfer fee.

Maignan, highly regarded for both his shot-stopping and ball-playing ability, fits the profile of a modern Premier League goalkeeper perfectly.

What it means for Sanchez

Sanchez’s status will be under scrutiny if Chelsea pull this off. While he enjoyed a strong summer highlighted by the Club World Cup, doubts remain about his consistency across a long domestic campaign.

The signing of Maignan could push him into a backup role or trigger another shake-up in Chelsea’s goalkeeping department.

A potential Mike Maignan transfer masterstroke

If Chelsea manage to bring in Maignan for free, it would be one of the standout deals of 2026.

His experience, composure, and distribution would immediately elevate Mauricio Pochettino’s side, potentially ending years of uncertainty in goal since the departure of Thibaut Courtois.