Chelsea’s goalkeeper obsession continues: Mike Maignan could become sixth new signing in three years

Chelsea's recruitment strategy under Todd Boehly continues to raise eyebrows, especially when it comes to the goalkeeper position. Despite several high-profile signings in the last three years, the club is still on the hunt for a long-term solution between the posts.

Since 2023, Chelsea have signed five different goalkeepers: American Gabriel Slonina, Serbian Đorđe Petrović, Spaniard Robert Sánchez, Belgian Mike Penders, and Danish youngster Filip Jørgensen. Despite this influx of talent, no one has managed to fully convince, with Sánchez currently holding the No. 1 spot, albeit with mixed reviews.

The next on the radar is Mike Maignan, the AC Milan and France national team goalkeeper, widely regarded as one of the most consistent shot-stoppers in Europe. According to Italian reports, Maignan has informed Milan he will not be extending his contract, which expires at the end of next season. That puts the Rossoneri in a tough position—either sell now or risk losing him for free in 2026.

Chelsea, sensing an opportunity, have already moved. A €20 million offer was submitted yesterday, aiming to secure the transfer quickly before other suitors join the race. Milan are now weighing their options but are under growing pressure, with several other stars such as Tijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernández also reportedly considering exits. The club’s fanbase is already voicing concerns over the potential exodus.

For Chelsea, Maignan could represent a rare chance to finally stabilize one of the most unsettled positions in their squad. But after five signings in as many windows, the club’s obsession with goalkeepers is becoming a defining—and costly—theme of the Boehly era.

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Written by Klemen Kos , football journalist with 20 years of experience.

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