AC Milan Unveils Strategy for Rebel Goalkeeper Maignan as Chelsea Lurks in Background

Reports suggest AC Milan is planning a final effort to persuade Mike Maignan to renew his contract after Chelsea's unsuccessful attempt to acquire the French goalkeeper before the Club World Cup.

Chelsea has prioritized signing a new goalkeeper this summer, with France's first-choice shot-stopper at the top of their wishlist.

However, the London club didn't meet Milan's valuation of approximately £21 million ($28.5 million) for Maignan, who has indicated he might let his contract expire and leave for free next summer. Consequently, no agreement was reached before the tournament began, though Chelsea may return with another offer later.

Chelsea's initial failure has given Milan an opportunity to win over Maignan, and CalcioMercato reports that the Italian club plans to make another attempt to convince the goalkeeper to extend his stay with the Rossoneri.

Discussions with the 29-year-old have been difficult thus far, with Milan allegedly promising Maignan a contract extension without providing formal documentation. Frustrated by this, Maignan has been exploring new possibilities, and a transfer to the Premier League remains appealing to him.

Nevertheless, Milan is hopeful that the appointments of Massimiliano Allegri and respected goalkeeper coach Claudio Filippi will help persuade their number one to remain in Lombardy long-term. They are expected to contact the French goalkeeper this week following the end of the June international break.

Regarding Chelsea, Maresca described their goalkeeper situation for the Club World Cup as "simple", stating: "Robert [Sanchez] is No.1, Filip [Jørgensen] is No.2, and we will analyse and judge [Mike] Penders. Maignan and different players at other clubs - I don't think it is worth talking about them."

Chelsea will be hoping Milan's persuasion efforts prove unsuccessful, allowing them to continue pursuing their primary target. They haven't ruled out the possibility of signing him as a free agent next summer.