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Chelsea Eye Free Transfer Move for Mike Maignan After Sanchez Red

Goalkeeper Situation Sparks Transfer Debate

Chelsea’s Premier League clash with Manchester United took a dramatic turn when Robert Sanchez was sent off just five minutes into the match at Old Trafford. The Spaniard was dismissed for a challenge on Bryan Mbeumo outside the box, and despite a VAR review, the decision stood.

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Enzo Maresca responded quickly, introducing Filip Jorgensen between the sticks and reshuffling the back line with Tosin Adarabioyo, sacrificing Estevao Willian and Pedro Neto. Bruno Fernandes then struck less than 10 minutes after the red card to put United ahead, leaving Chelsea fighting uphill from the start.

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Maignan Back on Chelsea Radar

According to the Express, the incident has reignited Chelsea’s interest in AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The Blues had previously explored a deal in June but were unwilling to meet Milan’s £25 million valuation. With Maignan’s contract set to expire next year, Chelsea could now negotiate a pre-contract agreement in January, or even push for a cut-price deal before the summer window.

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Reports suggest Maresca is an admirer of Maignan and considers him an ideal goalkeeper for his system. Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri convinced Maignan to stay last summer and handed him the captain’s armband, but contract talks have stalled, leaving the door open for Chelsea to act.

Perfect Opportunity for Squad Upgrade

While Sanchez will only miss the Carabao Cup tie against Lincoln City, the sending-off may accelerate Chelsea’s long-term planning. A goalkeeper of Maignan’s pedigree would bring Champions League experience and leadership to a squad still finding consistency.

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Sanchez has been solid at times, but moments like this show why competition is vital. Maignan is one of the top keepers in Europe and is entering a phase where his experience and authority could transform this defence. A free transfer or cut-price deal would represent excellent business if Chelsea can get ahead of their rivals.

Filip Jorgensen showed composure after coming on, but the club’s ambitions demand a world-class goalkeeper if they want to challenge Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal over a full season. Maresca’s style depends on building from the back, and Maignan’s passing range would immediately fit that vision.

Supporters will hope Todd Boehly and the recruitment team act quickly in January to ensure this doesn’t become another missed opportunity. Chelsea have the resources to make this happen and securing Maignan would send a message that the Blues are serious about competing for the top four and beyond.