Chelsea wanted to sign AC Milan and France goalkeeper Mike Maignan in the previous transfer window.
It was reported that Chelsea made a bid for Maignan’s signature, but a deal never happened in the end.
The Blues could not agree on a fee with Milan, resulting in the 30-year-old remaining at the San Siro.
Chelsea are still thought to be interested in Maignan amid doubts surrounding first-choice shot-stopper Robert Sanchez, but they face a new problem ahead of 2026.
Bayern Munich eyeing Mike Maignan as Manuel Neuer replacement
Manuel Neuer is a way more reliable and consistent goalkeeper than Sanchez, but the German turns 40 next year and will be a free agent at the end of the season.
It means that Bayern Munich may have to sign a new No.1, and Maignan is one name that appears to be on their radar.
According to TEAMtalk, the Bundesliga champions have identified Maignan as a potential successor to Neuer.
The outlet claims that Chelsea are still interested in the Frenchman, but Bayern being in the picture complicates things.
He may prefer a move to the Allianz Arena over Stamford Bridge, with Vincent Kompany’s side undoubtedly superior to Enzo Maresca‘s team at the moment.
They recently beat them 3-1 in the Champions League. Cole Palmer impressed Bayern fans with a quality display, but his performance was not enough for Chelsea and Maresca to take any points back to west London.
One of Chelsea’s fiercest rivals also keen on Mike Maignan
Bayern are not the only top European team who could make a move for Maignan in January or next summer.
Chelsea’s Premier League rivals Manchester United are also said to be interested in Maignan.
The Red Devils have had their own goalkeeper issues in recent seasons, so do not be shocked to see them make a move for Maignan. A transfer battle for the former Lille star could be on the horizon.
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