Liam Duckstein
Chelsea are reworking their goalkeeper plans for the 2025-26 season after a failed pursuit of AC Milan’s Mike Maignan. The Blues had hoped to sign the French international ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup but have now shifted focus internally following a breakdown in negotiations with Milan over the transfer fee.
Why Maignan Deal Fell Through
The Conference League champions viewed Maignan as a high-value opportunity rather than a necessity driven by manager Enzo Maresca. With Milan refusing to compromise, Chelsea have opted to withdraw interest, indicating a broader shift toward maximizing existing squad depth.
Six Goalkeepers, One Plan
According to Simon Johnson of The Athletic, Chelsea’s strategy centers around trimming and redistributing their goalkeeping options across the senior team, youth system, and sister club RC Strasbourg.
Who’s Staying at Stamford Bridge?
From the quartet of Robert Sánchez, Filip Jorgensen, Djordje Petrovic, and Mike Penders, only two are expected to remain. Sánchez, despite prior speculation about a potential exit, is reportedly in line to retain the number one shirt.
Likely Departures and Loans
Djordje Petrovic—fresh off being named Strasbourg’s Player of the Season—appears poised for a permanent move, as Chelsea aim to capitalize on his elevated market value. Either Jorgensen or Penders is set for a loan return to Strasbourg, where first-team minutes are virtually guaranteed in a Conference League campaign.
Slonina vs. Sharman-Lowe: Battle for No. 3
Gabriel Slonina and Teddy Sharman-Lowe are in contention to serve as Chelsea’s third-choice goalkeeper. Sharman-Lowe, who recently won League Two with Doncaster Rovers and earned an England U21 call-up, is attracting EFL interest. However, Slonina’s status as an international player complicates a loan move, as Chelsea are reluctant to use one of their six foreign loan slots.
Given this constraint, Slonina is the frontrunner to remain as a domestic backup option—keeping him close to Maresca’s squad while allowing flexibility with other foreign loanees.
One Veteran Out, Another In?
Veteran Marcus Bettinelli is set to join Manchester City as a replacement for Scott Carson, creating the need for internal promotion. This could further cement Slonina’s position as the team’s backup keeper behind Sánchez.
Final Word
In typical Chelsea fashion, depth isn’t the issue—it’s about streamlining options and playing the long game with emerging talents. The club appears committed to balancing immediate squad needs with future planning, all while working around UEFA roster regulations. For fans and bettors, expect continuity in goal next season—with Sánchez between the sticks and Slonina waiting in the wings.