Chelsea have officially pulled out of the race to sign AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, following the rejection of their latest improved bid of €21 million. The decision comes just weeks before the start of the FIFA Club World Cup, which the Blues were aiming to strengthen their squad for.
According to trusted transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea had hoped the enhanced offer would convince Milan to release the French goalkeeper. However, the Serie A giants stood firm, demanding a much higher fee than Chelsea were willing to offer.
Romano shared the update via his official X account (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Mike Maignan deal now OFF between Chelsea and AC Milan. Chelsea not willing to meet Milan price, deal not proceeding in time for Club World Cup as #CFC won’t pay ‘CWC tax.’”
As a result, Chelsea have decided to abandon talks and focus on their current goalkeeping options, which include Djordje Petrović, Robert Sánchez, Filip Jörgensen, and academy talent Mike Penders.
Mike Maignan, whose contract with AC Milan is valid until June 2026, is reportedly unsettled at the club. A contract extension was agreed in principle back in March, but it was never finalized or signed.
Despite Maignan’s reported openness to a move away from Milan, the Italian side remained inflexible in their demands. They had previously turned down Chelsea’s opening bid of €15 million plus performance-related bonuses before also rejecting the improved €21 million offer.
With no compromise in sight and the clock ticking toward the Club World Cup, Chelsea have now officially ended their pursuit of the French international.[/p>