CHELSEA are in talks with AC Milan to sign goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
The France star, 29, has only a year left on his contract in Italy, with both parties yet to agree on fresh terms.
And the Blues have been alerted by Maignan’s failure to pen an extension at the San Siro, where AC Milan failed to qualify for Europe.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca believes the £34million-rated stopper is an ideal option for his possession-based attack.
The Stamford Bridge outfit already have five keepers on their books — Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, Djordje Petrovic, Mike Penders and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
But Maignan’s potential arrival would see him challenge for the No 1 jersey in another shake-up to the goalkeeping department.
Chelsea fans have been calling for a new No 1, with both Sanchez and Jorgensen failing to prove they should be the main man between the sticks.
French Guiana-born Maignan helped Lille to the French title in 2021.
He won Serie A with Milan a year later.
Maignan has amassed a total of 163 appearances for the Italian club and made four errors leading to goals last season, comparing to Sanchez’s five.
But AC Milan could cash in now amid fears he could leave the club on a free transfer in 2026.
Maignan has played 30 times for France and was named in the Euro 2024 team of the tournament.
Maresca’s Chelsea are set to make Liam Delap their first summer signing.
The Blues will pay his £30million release clause at relegated Ipswich, who he joined last summer from Manchester City.
Chelsea will also welcome youngsters Estevao Willian, Kendry Paez and Dario Essugo to the club.
One player leaving the club is Jadon Sancho.
Chelsea paid Manchester United £5m NOT to sign him on a permanent basis.
And the winger, 25, posted on Instagram: “Grateful for the experience. Big love to everyone at Chelsea who made me feel at home — team-mates, staff and the fans.
“Wishing the club all the best moving forward. Truly grateful. Thank you Blues.”
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