La Gazzetta dello Sport reports Chelsea have not abandoned their pursuit and are ready to make another approach this summer, with the situation at AC Milan behind the scenes increasingly unsettled. Manager Massimiliano Allegri and sporting director Igli Tare have both been linked with departures at the end of the season, and Chelsea view the instability as a factor that could reopen a conversation the January contract appeared to have closed.
Maignan signed the extension in January 2026, committing to Milan until summer 2031. The deal was brokered with Allegri playing a significant role in convincing him to stay, making the potential exit of the Italian manager all the more relevant to Chelsea's calculations.
The 30-year-old France international, who is in the France squad for this summer's World Cup, has been one of the finest goalkeepers in European football since joining Milan from Lille in 2021. He has made 35 Serie A appearances this season, keeping 13 clean sheets. His level has never been the question — the obstacles have always been financial and contractual.
Chelsea attempted to sign Maignan last summer, agreeing personal terms before failing to reach a fee agreement with Milan. The Rossoneri rejected multiple bids and subsequently moved to extend his contract. Chelsea's need for an upgrade on their current options remains acute, particularly with Calum McFarlane's squad lacking a reliable first-choice goalkeeper.
The club could potentially structure a deal through their BlueCo ownership network, which has established relationships across European football.
Milan's Champions League place is also unresolved, with the club currently level on points with Roma in the race for fourth. Missing out on the Champions League for a second consecutive season would significantly change the financial dynamics around any conversation with a player of Maignan's calibre.