Chelsea’s Late Move for Mike Maignan Collapses as Deadline Looms

Blues Refuse to Pay “Club World Cup Tax” as Milan Stand Firm on Goalkeeper’s Valuation

Chelsea’s frantic deadline-day push to sign AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan has dramatically collapsed, leaving manager Enzo Maresca to rely on his current squad for the upcoming Club World Cup. The Blues abruptly walked away from negotiations after refusing to meet the Italian club’s £21 million valuation, which club sources described as an inflated “Club World Cup tax.”

The west London club had been determined to secure the French international before tonight’s deadline to bolster their goalkeeping options, with Robert Sanchez failing to convince as the undisputed No. 1. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea initially offered £12.6 million including add-ons before raising their bid to around £18 million late Monday – still short of Milan’s firm asking price.

“This was about principle as much as price,” a Chelsea insider revealed. “We felt Milan were taking advantage of our urgent Club World Cup situation.” The breakdown means Maresca will now travel to the tournament with his existing keepers, though the club may revisit the deal after the competition concludes.

While the collapse represents a setback for Chelsea’s ambitions, Maresca has reportedly assured the board of his confidence in the current squad. The Blues had already secured three signings – Liam Delap, Dario Essugo and Mamadou Sarr – ahead of the tournament, but their failure to land a top-class goalkeeper leaves questions unanswered about their defensive solidity.

With the window temporarily closing tonight before reopening in six days, Chelsea’s hierarchy must now decide whether to test Milan’s resolve again or explore alternative targets. For Maignan, the saga represents another chapter in his complicated relationship with the transfer market, while Chelsea fans are left wondering if their club’s hardline negotiating stance could come back to haunt them.

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