Chelsea’s deadline day turned out to be a relatively quiet one in the end despite efforts made to secure the addition of Mike Maignan.
The Blues sensed an opportunity to sign Maignan in a cut-price deal, with his contract set to expire at the end of next season.
Chelsea made an improved bid for Maignan on deadline day before the Club World Cup, however ultimately failed to reach an agreement with AC Milan.
It was believed the addition would bring a level of quality between the sticks that the club do not have with current options Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen.
Chelsea now considering signing Mike Maignan for free next summer
While it is believed Chelsea could return for Maignan this summer, another avenue of bringing in the France international has cropped up.
Journalist Daniele Longo has claimed that the Blues are now weighing up holding out until next year before signing the goalkeeper on a free transfer.
He said: “From what has emerged today, Chelsea are considering taking Maignan next year on a free transfer.”
With reports stating Maignan was very keen on a move to Chelsea, they may be able to convince him to hold out so there can be no obstacles stopping them getting their man.
Enzo Maresca was really pushing for Maignan to come into the club, with it seeming as if he is not too confident in the options currently at the club to take the Blues into the next stage of their project.
Enzo Maresca not a fan of Chelsea’s goalkeepers
Maresca has lost faith in Sanchez despite his strong end to the campaign. The 24/25 season as a whole was not impressive from the Spaniard.
The manager has told Djordje Petrovic he can leave too, despite impressing greatly during his loan spell at Strasbourg.
It was reported earlier this season that Maresca was prioritising footwork in his quest for a new goalkeeper, however it remains to be seen if he is given the backing his first season at the club deserves.
The Italian will be looking to build on the club’s return to Champions League football, although will need sufficient backing in the transfer market to make this possible.
