Juventus Increases Pursuit of Mike Maignan Amid Milan Contract Stalemate

According to *La Gazzetta dello Sport*, Juventus has heightened its interest in French goalkeeper Mike Maignan after contract negotiations between the player and AC Milan have encountered significant delays. Although Maignan’s current contract runs until June 2026, discussions regarding an extension have been stagnant since April. Milan had proposed a new contract extending to 2028, which included a salary increase from €2.8 million to €5.5 million per year. However, these negotiations halted due to concerns about the Frenchman’s long-term fitness and availability, leading to speculation that the 30-year-old may seek a new challenge.

Maignan joined Milan from Lille in 2021 and has become a pivotal figure in their defensive lineup. His leadership and experience have established him as one of Europe’s premier goalkeepers, prompting Juventus to capitalize on Milan’s indecision.

Chelsea poses a significant threat to Juventus in their bid for Maignan, having previously shown substantial interest during the summer transfer window. The London club attempted to secure his services but failed to reach an agreement with Milan. As Chelsea continues to seek a long-term solution in goal, they are expected to make another approach next summer, armed with financial resources to entice Maignan.

Juventus may hold an advantage over Chelsea due to Maignan’s preference to remain in Italy, where he has lived for four years. Furthermore, the growing French presence at Juventus, including CEO Damien Comolli, national teammate Khephren Thuram, and former Milan defender Pierre Kalulu, could play a crucial role in persuading the goalkeeper to move to Turin.

Juventus’ renewed interest in Maignan coincides with increased scrutiny of the club’s finances. UEFA has initiated new proceedings concerning alleged financial irregularities from 2022 to 2025, which could result in further sanctions. The club has already faced a one-year European ban and a €20 million fine for violating Financial Fair Play regulations, in addition to a 10-point deduction in the previous season due to false accounting in transfer dealings.

As a result, Juventus has adjusted its transfer strategy, focusing on free agents and low-cost signings rather than high-profile acquisitions. Maignan’s situation presents an opportunity to secure world-class talent without overspending.

In addition to Maignan, Juventus is monitoring other potential free agents, including Roma defender Zeki Celik, who will also be available next summer. Unlike Maignan, however, Celik is currently engaged in renewal talks with his club. While optimism persists in Rome regarding an agreement, Juventus has made preliminary inquiries and may intervene if negotiations stall. Celik has played 101 matches alongside Maignan during their tenure at Lille, and reuniting the duo in Turin is appealing to the Bianconeri’s management as they aim to rebuild their roster amid a challenging season.

The club recently dismissed Igor Tudor following an eight-game winless streak and appointed Luciano Spalletti in hopes of revitalizing their campaign. However, the early results have been mixed, with Spalletti securing one win and two draws in his initial three matches. Currently, the Old Lady sits sixth in the Serie A standings and will face Fiorentina following the international break.