Approved by Rosenior: “World-class” £60k-p/w star now prime Chelsea target
A “world-class” star has now emerged as Chelsea’s prime target to replace Robert Sanchez, and new manager Liam Rosenior has given the green light.
Blues still looking to replace Sanchez
Although Sanchez has arguably improved this season, after receiving widespread criticism for his performances in the 2024-25 campaign, the Blues remain keen on bringing in a new option between the sticks.
It may seem a little harsh to replace the Spaniard, given that he has recorded a clean sheet percentage of 43.2% per 90 over the past year, placing him in the 94th percentile, compared to other goalkeepers.
However, the west Londoners started identifying potential targets ahead of the transfer window, and in November it was revealed they were willing to make a move for Barcelona shot-stopper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.
Since then, there has been a change in manager, with Rosenior’s appointment recently being confirmed, but the new boss has approved a move for a goalkeeper, and AC Milan star Mike Maignan has now been identified as a prime target.
That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states Chelsea are lining up a move for a long-term Sanchez replacement, and a number of potential targets have been identified, including Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen.
However, the AC Milan goalkeeper is the number one choice, and Rosenior has approved the move to bring in an elite goalkeeper, with BlueCo aiming to challenge for the Premier League title next season.
"World-class Maignan may not be upgrade on Sanchez
Both Maignan and Sanchez have conceded an average of 1.05 non-penalty goals per 90 over the past year, but Sanchez has a far better clean sheet percentage at 43.2%, compared to 31.6% from the Frenchman.
Prior to his exit, Enzo Maresca also lauded the former Brighton man, saying: “I think Robert, in terms of saving, he has been always good since I joined the club. In terms of build-up, he struggled a little bit.
“But I said since day one, our build-up depends a little bit on how the other team press so sometimes we go long, sometimes we go short.
“I think Robert’s game against Arsenal has been one of his best games also in build-up because we played also some goal kicks short when we arrived in the other box.”
Chelsea making 'serious' £65m bid for Barcelona star to back Liam Rosenior
The Blues want to make a statement this window.
ByEmilio Galantini
With Chelsea’s current goalkeeper showing he is capable of performing at a top club, it may not be worth bringing in a new goalkeeper, especially if the new signing isn’t a major upgrade.
Subscribe for expert Chelsea transfer and goalkeeper coverage Want deeper context? Subscribe to the newsletter for focused coverage of Chelsea’s goalkeeper debate, profiles of targets like Maignan, and the transfer implications for Rosenior’s squad – plus broader club transfer analysis and insight.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
That said, the 30-year-old, who pockets a tidy £60k-a-week, is set to be available on a free transfer at the end of the season, with his AC Milan contract due to expire, which means he could be a low-risk addition to Rosenior’s squad.
Having also been lauded as “world-class” by writer Carlo Garganese, the 37-time France international could be a savvy signing for the Blues, but he would by no means be a necessary addition to Rosenior’s squad.