Chelsea’s Goalkeeping Situation
Chelsea Football Club is reportedly reigniting their interest in AC Milan’s goalkeeper Mike Maignan. This comes on the heels of Robert Sánchez’s early dismissal during Chelsea’s recent 2-1 loss to Manchester United, casting uncertainty on their goalkeeping situation. Previously, Chelsea had attempted to secure Maignan’s services over the summer, but negotiations faltered over a £25 million transfer fee. As his contract is set to expire at the conclusion of the current season, Chelsea might look to negotiate a pre-contract arrangement starting January, or potentially a discounted deal during the winter transfer window.
Vinícius Júnior’s Discontent at Real Madrid
Meanwhile, tensions are gradually rising surrounding Vinícius Júnior’s status at Real Madrid. Reports from Diario Sport indicate that the Brazilian winger is discontent with his decreased playing time under new coach Xabi Alonso, further complicating ongoing discussions regarding his contract renewal. There are suggestions that he might either seek a transfer or choose to leave as a free agent in 2027. Alonso’s patience is reportedly waning, especially after Vinícius expressed frustration at being substituted in a match against Espanyol.
AC Milan’s Plans for Christian Pulisic
In other news, AC Milan is working on extending the contract of American international Christian Pulisic until 2029. They aim to raise the 27-year-old’s salary from €4 million to €5 million net per season. Although Pulisic’s current deal has an option for an additional year beyond 2027, AC Milan appears eager to secure his future with the club following a difficult previous season, where he expressed a desire to better understand the team’s ambitions.
Transfer Rumors and Future Moves
At Chelsea, the ties with striker Nicolas Jackson seem to be severing. Fabrizio Romano reports that it’s unlikely he will return, regardless of Bayern Munich’s decision regarding his loan. Emanuel Emegha is expected to take on Jackson’s role when he arrives from Strasbourg next summer, with something remarkable needed for Jackson to return to Stamford Bridge.
In a glance at the transfer landscape, both Real Madrid and Barcelona have an eye on Erling Haaland of Manchester City for a potential move in 2026; however, Haaland’s successor at the Etihad has a contract binding him until 2034, making any transfer unlikely. Other clubs are also circulating in the transfer rumor mill, with Liverpool considering a January bid for Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, despite resistance from the Eagles. Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Aston Villa have reportedly shown interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Brandt.
Managerial Changes at West Ham United
Lastly, football insiders are discussing potential managerial changes at West Ham United, with Nuno Espirito Santo emerging as the frontrunner to replace Graham Potter, alongside other candidates such as Slaven Bilic, Gary O’Neil, and Sean Dyche.
