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Talks have begun over a potential deal for Maignan, who has just one year left on his contract with the Italian side.
AC Milan is reportedly asking for a substantial fee for the French international, but Chelsea is unwilling to match the price.
Sources indicate that the two clubs remain far apart in their valuations, with Chelsea offering significantly less than Milan’s asking price.
Additionally, Chelsea has reportedly set a deadline for reaching an agreement, adding urgency to the discussions.
‘My understanding today is that after 24 hours there are two clear positions – AC Milan want at least €30m (£25m) for Mike Maignan, meanwhile, Chelsea want to spend something around, could be a bit more than this, €10m (£8.4m),’ Romano said.
‘Milan consider Maignan as one of the best goalkeepers in the world and they don’t want him to go for a cheap fee.
‘Meanwhile, Chelsea believe Maignan will not sign a new deal at Milan, out of contract in the summer transfer window in 2026, and so Chelsea say if the player is not extending, for us, he is worth €10m (£8.4m).
‘At the moment there is a big gap. Chelsea have no intention to wait too long, until Monday from what I’m told, then Chelsea could be prepared to move on.
‘Chelsea are not in a rush for a new goalkeeper, if there is a good opportunity, which is what they believe Mike Maignan is, they are ready to jump into the market to make it happen, but on their conditions. But their conditions are not matching Milan’s request.’
The summer transfer window opened at the start of June, giving clubs the opportunity to strengthen their squads ahead of the Club World Cup, and will close next Tuesday.
During his tenure at AC Milan, Mike Maignan has played a crucial role in securing major silverware, including the Serie A title and the Supercoppa Italiana.
The experienced goalkeeper, who previously won the Ligue 1 title with Lille, has earned recognition for his performances. He was named Serie A’s Best Goalkeeper in 2022 and was included in the Euro 2024 Team of the Tournament.
Ahead of Liverpool’s victory over AC Milan in the Champions League earlier this season, Alisson praised Maignan, describing him as one of the top goalkeepers in world football.
‘He has been at the best level for five years now,’ Alisson said.
‘He has been good since he arrived at AC Milan, he is good for the France national team. He has perfectly replaced a great goalkeeper, a world champion in Hugo Lloris. It isn’t easy but he has done very well.
‘He is physical, quick, he has clean technique. He is very strong. He is one of the best in the world. The quality of goalkeepers has really increased – Mike Maignan is within this elite.’
