Chelsea are working against the clock to finalize two key signings—goalkeeper Mike Maignan from AC Milan and Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens—before the FIFA Club World Cup registration deadline.
Talks remain ongoing between Chelsea and Milan over a deal for Maignan, with the Blues eager to bring in a new No.1 under recently appointed manager Enzo Maresca. While Milan are holding out for around £25 million, Chelsea have returned with an improved £15 million bid for the French international, who has just one year remaining on his contract.
Maignan is reportedly open to the move, and should a deal be agreed, he is expected to become Chelsea’s new first-choice goalkeeper. His arrival would likely pave the way for the departure of Kepa Arrizabalaga, with Arsenal close to sealing a £5 million move for the Spaniard, whose time at Stamford Bridge has been marked by multiple loan spells, including his most recent stint at Bournemouth.
Meanwhile, Chelsea remain in active negotiations with Borussia Dortmund over a deal for 20-year-old winger Jamie Gittens. The Premier League side had an opening £29.5 million offer turned down and may need to meet Dortmund’s valuation, which could rise as high as £50 million. Gittens, a former Chelsea academy player, has impressed in Germany and is seen as the next English talent to emerge from the Bundesliga following the successes of Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham.
Both Chelsea and Dortmund will compete in the revamped Club World Cup in the United States and must finalize player registrations by Tuesday night.
The Blues have already confirmed the £12 million signing of 19-year-old defender Mamadou Sarr from sister club RC Strasbourg, while their biggest acquisition so far this summer remains striker Liam Delap, who joined from Ipswich Town for £30 million.
