Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has officially named his first and second-choice goalkeepers at Stamford Bridge amid ongoing speculation about the potential arrival of AC Milan's Mike Maignan.
During his pre-match press conference on Sunday, Maresca was questioned about the club's goalkeeper situation and responded definitively: "Robert Sanchez is No 1 and then Filip Jorgensen is No 2. Mike Penders has joined us. Then we will take a final decision."
The clarification comes as Chelsea's pursuit of French international Maignan appears to have hit a roadblock. The Blues approached AC Milan last week regarding a potential transfer, with Maignan yet to sign a new contract with the Italian club. However, negotiations stalled when Chelsea reportedly refused to meet Milan's asking price.
Sources indicate the deal failed to progress in time for the Club World Cup registration deadline, with Chelsea unwilling to pay what has been described as a "Club World Cup tax" - likely referring to an inflated valuation due to the tournament's proximity.
Despite the setback in acquiring Maignan, Chelsea appears content with their current goalkeeping options. The club has expressed "full trust" in their existing roster of Petrović, Sánchez, Filip Jorgensen, and promising talent Mike Penders, though reports suggest they could revisit the Maignan deal in the future.
Chelsea's Transfer Plans Beyond Goalkeeping
Maresca also confirmed that Chelsea will be active in the transfer market to strengthen other areas of the squad, particularly following Jadon Sancho's return to Manchester United after his season-long loan at Stamford Bridge.
"New winger? Something will happen for sure," Maresca stated. "Jadon Sancho has left so we only have three proper wingers now."
This statement indicates Chelsea's intention to bolster their attacking options before the transfer window closes, as they look to improve on last season's performance and compete on multiple fronts, including the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States.
The Blues' transfer strategy appears to be taking shape under Maresca's guidance, with clear priorities emerging in both defensive and offensive positions.
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