Juventus are preparing to make their move for AC Milan’s star goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, after contract talks between the Frenchman and the Rossoneri came to a halt. Below you will see information about this news which has been summarized The Football Insight.
Maignan’s current deal runs until 2026, but discussions over a new contract have stalled since April. Milan reportedly offered a pay rise to €5.5 million per year, yet doubts about his fitness and availability caused negotiations to freeze.
This uncertainty has opened the door for Juventus, who see Maignan as the perfect successor to Wojciech Szczęsny. The 30-year-old, widely regarded as one of Europe’s best goalkeepers, has been a vital figure in Milan’s success since arriving from Lille in 2021. His leadership, consistency, and winning mentality have made him a top target for the Bianconeri.
For Juventus, the timing couldn’t be better. With Milan hesitating and Maignan seeking clarity about his future, the Turin giants are eager to take advantage of the situation and strengthen their squad with a world-class addition.
Chelsea Still Loom Large in the Race
Standing in Juventus’ way is Chelsea, who have long admired Maignan. The Premier League side tried to sign him last summer but couldn’t reach an agreement with Milan. Now, with their goalkeeping situation still unsettled, the Blues are preparing to renew their pursuit in 2026.
Chelsea have the financial muscle to tempt both Milan and Maignan with a lucrative offer, something Juventus will struggle to match. However, the Italian club might hold one crucial advantage Maignan’s comfort in Italy. Having lived there for four years, he may prefer to stay in Serie A rather than start over in England.
Adding to that, Juventus’ growing French influence could play a role. With CEO Damien Comolli and French internationals like Khephren Thuram already at the club, Maignan could feel right at home in Turin a factor that may tip the scales in Juve’s favor.
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Financial Realities Driving Juventus’ Strategy
Juventus’ pursuit of Maignan reflects their new, cautious transfer strategy. The club is still dealing with financial and legal fallout from previous FFP breaches. They’ve already paid fines, served a one-year European ban, and suffered a 10-point deduction for false accounting. Because of these setbacks, Juventus have shifted their focus to smart, affordable deals.
Free transfers and players nearing contract expiry have become their main targets. Maignan’s situation fits that approach perfectly a world-class signing without an inflated transfer fee. For Juventus, landing a player of Maignan’s caliber under current financial restrictions would be a huge statement. It would signal a return to smarter, more sustainable recruitment after years of turbulence.
Other Targets and a Season in Transition
Maignan isn’t the only name on Juventus’ shortlist. The club is also monitoring Roma’s Turkish right-back Zeki Çelik, who could become a free agent next summer. Juventus have already made inquiries, hoping to reunite him with Maignan his former teammate at Lille. Meanwhile, on the pitch, Juventus are still finding their rhythm under new coach Luciano Spalletti, who replaced Igor Tudor after an eight-game winless run.
Spalletti has steadied the ship slightly with one win and two draws, but the team sits sixth in Serie A and needs consistency fast. As the club rebuilds, securing Maignan and possibly Çelik could be key to restoring Juventus’ dominance. The challenge now lies in outsmarting Chelsea and convincing Milan’s star to guard Turin’s goal instead. Follow footballcoasters.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest story.