Lost amongst the Moises Caicedo transfer saga is the news that longtime Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa will be heading to Real Madrid on a one-year loan. There is no option to buy or obligation to buy in the language of the loan, which means that the Spaniard will return to London next year following the conclusion of his stay at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, it is no secret that the Blues still want to add another goalkeeper, and preferably one that can push newcomer Robert Sanchez for a place in the starting XI.
#5. Should Chelsea go for Mike Maignan
Chelsea fans have been clamoring for the club to sign Mike Maignan for some time now, and the Blues cannot say they have not tried. Tuttosport reported that, earlier this summer, the club bid €60 million for the French international, but AC Milan were looking for a sum north of €80 million. CFC have now spent nearly double of that initial bid on the signing of Caicedo, but could have a change of heart if things fall through with other transfers.
Aside from his obvious talents, the greatest thing about a potential Maignan transfer is that he would walk in and be Chelsea’s top dog between the posts on day one. The 28 year old has played over 200 games in Europe dating back to 2015, and would give the Blues the experience and skill they need to reach a higher level. Maignan had big shoes to fill at Milan, having been signed to replace the departing Gianluigi Donnarumma, so it is safe to say he should have no problem replacing Kepa if called upon.
Bringing Maignan in would certainly take the pressure off Sanchez’ shoulders and allow for a healthy rotation in goal. At this stage in the window, and at the reported price tag, it does not appear that Chelsea are currently willing to make another effort at Milan’s star shot-stopper. Maignan is certainly good enough to be worth revisiting at another time, but Chelsea have moved on, for now.