Insider Journalist Reveals Three Goalkeepers the Chelsea Are Targeting This Summer Transfer Window

Chelsea are preparing for a major summer transfer window after officially securing their place in next season’s UEFA Champions League — and a new goalkeeper is one of the top priorities on their list.

The Blues sealed a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on the final day of the Premier League season, finishing 5th in the table. However, thanks to England gaining an extra Champions League spot via UEFA’s coefficient rankings, Chelsea qualified for Europe’s top competition for the first time since 2022. It’s a big step forward for the club following a period of inconsistency and managerial changes.

New manager Enzo Maresca, who arrived after impressing at Leicester City, has made it clear that Chelsea need to improve in several key areas. The goalkeeper position, in particular, has become a growing concern.

Current options Robert Sánchez and Djordje Petrovic shared duties last season, but neither fully convinced as long-term number ones. Sánchez had inconsistent performances, keeping just 5 clean sheets in 19 Premier League appearances, while Petrovic, who took over midway through the campaign, managed 8 clean sheets in 23 league games.

Despite some solid shot-stopping moments, neither keeper ranked in the Premier League’s top 10 for save percentage, with both finishing the season around the mid-table mark in that category. Their struggles with distribution and command of the penalty area have led Chelsea to explore other options.

According to Chelsea insider Simon Phillips via his Substack, Mike Maignan of AC Milan is the top target. The 28-year-old France international is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe. Last season, Maignan kept 14 clean sheets in Serie A, placing him in the top three for that category in Italy. He also had an impressive 75% save rate and played a crucial role in Milan’s strong domestic and European performances.

With Maignan entering the final two years of his contract and Milan reportedly open to a sale for the right price, Chelsea believe they may be able to secure him at a cut price, likely in the region of £35-40 million.

In addition to Maignan, Chelsea are tracking Lucas Chevalier of Lille and Joan Garcia of Espanyol. Chevalier, just 22, kept 13 clean sheets in Ligue 1 last season and has drawn comparisons to Maignan himself, who also developed at Lille. His quick reflexes and strong distribution skills make him a promising option for the future.

Meanwhile, 23-year-old Garcia impressed in La Liga with Espanyol, helping the team push for promotion. He kept 15 clean sheets in the Segunda Division and is seen as one of the brightest young talents in Spanish football.

Chelsea’s return to the Champions League not only boosts their reputation but also strengthens their appeal in the transfer market. Competing in Europe’s elite competition means the Blues will need depth, experience, and top-level performers — especially in goal, where a commanding presence can be the difference in tight matches.

Maresca and the new-look Chelsea board are eager to make a statement this summer. Whether it’s Maignan or another rising star, expect the goalkeeping position to be one of the first areas they address as they gear up for a crucial 2025/26 campaign.