Free transfer deal for goalkeeper can be Chelsea's true solution after Robert Sanchez red

Robert Sanchez's red card against Manchester Unitedwas a major setback for Chelsea and could prompt the club to reignite their interest in AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

The Chelsea shot-stopper was sent off in the fifth minute at Old Trafford after a tackle on Bryan Mbeumo just outside the penalty area.

VAR reviewed the decision and the referee's on-field decision stood, forcing Enzo Marescato make early changes to his team just minutes into the match.

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The Italian made a double substitution, replacing Estevao Willian and Pedro Neto with Filip Jorgensen, who took over in goal, and Tosin Adarabioyo, who was added to the defence.

However, United skipper Bruno Fernandes found the opener less than 10 minutes after Sanchez's sending off.

Although the Spaniard will only miss Tuesday evening's Carabao Cupclash with Lincoln City, the incident could prompt Chelsea to revisit the market for a goalkeeper, following their summer interest in Maignan.

Chelsea made their first approach at the start of June, but Milan were reluctant to part with the French international. They valued the 30-year-old at £25million, and in the end, the west London side showed no urgency to reach an agreement.

It's understood that Chelsea were content with goalkeeping options in Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen.

However, Maignan is in the final year of his contract at San Siro and will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside of Italy, starting in January.

Striking an agreement now would allow Chelsea to beat their rivals to his signature and secure him on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Maresca is believed to be an admirer of Maignan and reportedly

🚨🔵 More on Mike Maignan and Chelsea exclusive story.

Understand contacts have started also with Enzo Maresca appreciating the French goalkeeper as ideal option for his tactical approach.

Chelsea are on it, and the manager has approved Maignan as a key target. pic.twitter.com/q2C8XxRLdU

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 3, 2025

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Earlier this month, reports claimed that the appointment of Massimiliano Allegri played a key role in convincing Maignan to stayat Milan over the summer.

The new head coach quickly confirmed that Maignan would remain captain and identified keeping the goalkeeper as a crucial factor in his decision to take the job.

However, there has reportedly been no progress on a new contract to keep Maignan in Italy, giving Chelsea an opportunity to renew their pursuit.