Overview

• TEAMtalk-linked reports say Chelsea opted against a summer move for Gianluigi Donnarumma because they expect to secure Mike Maignan via a January pre-contract.
• Chelsea did not meet AC Milan’s valuation for Maignan in the summer and are hoping for a reduced outlay or free agreement as his deal runs down.
• Manchester United and other clubs are also reported to be monitoring Maignan, increasing competition for any pre-contract or winter deal.
• Coverage suggests Milan could face pressure to sell Maignan in January to avoid losing him for nothing if he signs elsewhere.
• Scrutiny of Chelsea’s current options has intensified after Robert Sánchez’s poor form and a recent red card, with prospect Mike Penders progressing on loan at Strasbourg.