Chelsea is set to sign Milan goalkeeper Maignan

Recent reports suggest that Premier League side Chelsea is close to signing French goalkeeper Maignan from Serie A giants AC Milan. The transfer fee is reportedly around £15 million, with both parties having reached an agreement.

Last season, Chelsea performed exceptionally well, securing the Europa League title and qualifying for next season’s Champions League. To further strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign, the club has been active in the transfer market.

So far, Chelsea have signed two new players: midfielder Dario Esogu from Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon, and forward Liam Delap from Championship side Ipswich Town. Additionally, according to media reports, young winger Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund could also join the club soon.

Now, the transfer of Maignan is also nearing completion. He has already bid farewell to his Milan teammates and appears to be on the verge of officially joining Chelsea. The 30-year-old goalkeeper has been a consistent performer for Milan over the past few years, making over 160 appearances, but his contract has only one year remaining, and Milan is also seeking a replacement.

Originally, Chelsea had considered including goalkeepers Peter Jorgensen or Kepa in the deal, but Milan preferred a cash-only transaction, so the deal was finalized with a cash payment. The Blues hope that Maignan will be available for the Club World Cup in the United States in mid-June, where their first opponent will be Los Angeles FC.

At present, Chelsea does indeed need a new goalkeeper. Last season’s first-choice goalkeeper, Sanchez, was in poor form and was replaced by Danish goalkeeper Jorgensen, but the latter’s performance also failed to satisfy the coach. Therefore, signing Maignan is also considered one of the team’s key targets this summer.

Overall, this is a mutually beneficial transfer. Chelsea can strengthen their goalkeeping position, while Milan can recoup funds to sign new players. Fans are now waiting for the official announcement, which is expected to be made shortly.