AC Milan Line Up Lyon’s Perri as Mike Maignan Pushes for Chelsea Move

Milan identify new goalkeeper target amid Chelsea’s offer for Maignan

AC Milan appear to be preparing for life after Mike Maignan. With the French goalkeeper reportedly edging closer to a summer switch to Chelsea, the Rossoneri have turned their attention to finding a new No.1 — and it seems Lyon’s Lucas Perri has emerged as the frontrunner to replace him between the posts at San Siro.

Maignan agrees terms with Chelsea, asks Milan to accept offer

The situation surrounding Maignan has escalated in recent weeks. Reports from Italy, particularly via Sky Sport, indicate that the 28-year-old has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea, and has now formally asked Milan to accept the Premier League club’s latest bid. Although the Italian giants were initially reluctant to part ways with one of their most valuable assets, the goalkeeper’s clear stance may force their hand.

Chelsea’s need for a top-class keeper is no secret. Kepa Arrizabalaga has failed to convince in recent years, and Robert Sánchez’s performances last season didn’t quite offer the level of reliability expected at Stamford Bridge. Maignan — with his elite shot-stopping, commanding presence, and experience in both Serie A and the Champions League — is a natural upgrade and one the Blues are eager to secure quickly.

Perri tops Milan’s shortlist of replacements

A time of transition in Milan

With Maignan seemingly on his way out, Milan have already begun laying the groundwork for his successor. After casting a wide net across Europe, evaluating a range of names including Roma’s Miles Svilar, Torino’s Vanja Milinković-Savić, and Parma’s highly-rated youngster Zion Suzuki, the Milan hierarchy now appear settled on one man — Lucas Perri.

The Brazilian shot-stopper enjoyed a solid campaign with Lyon, registering 10 clean sheets in Ligue 1 despite the team’s rocky form at times. In total, Perri conceded 44 goals over the course of the season, a number that doesn’t quite reflect the stability he brought to Lyon’s defensive line.

Having only joined the French club from Botafogo in 2023, Perri’s rise in Europe has been swift. His tall frame, strong aerial command, and sharp reflexes have caught the eye of several top sides, but it is Milan who look most likely to act decisively.

A time of transition in Milan

AC Milan v Monza – Serie A

The pursuit of Perri is just one of many moves expected from the Rossoneri this summer, as the club prepares for a significant transition. Following the departure of Stefano Pioli, veteran coach Massimiliano Allegri is poised to return to the Milan dugout — and with him comes a fresh tactical vision and a long to-do list.

Top of that list is the squad rebuild. In addition to Maignan’s likely exit, full-back Theo Hernández is in advanced discussions with Atlético Madrid, while midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is reportedly close to completing a switch to Manchester City. That trio formed the spine of Milan’s starting XI last season, and their departure marks the end of an era at San Siro.

Replacing such high-calibre players will not be easy. However, Milan see this as an opportunity to recalibrate and retool under Allegri’s watchful eye. The recruitment strategy will be crucial — and while Perri may not yet be a household name in Italy, Milan clearly believe the 26-year-old has the tools to succeed on the big stage.

Who is Lucas Perri?

For those unfamiliar with the Brazilian keeper, Lucas Perri began his professional career in his homeland with São Paulo FC. After limited first-team opportunities there, he joined Botafogo on a permanent deal, where he quickly became a fan favourite due to his consistency and maturity between the posts. His performances during Botafogo’s impressive domestic run caught the attention of Lyon, who moved swiftly to bring him to Europe last summer.

In France, Perri adapted well to the higher tempo and technical quality of Ligue 1. While Lyon struggled for large stretches of the season, finishing mid-table, Perri’s stock remained high — and with Milan in need of a dependable option, the timing seems perfect for his next big move.

Chelsea’s ambition reshaping Europe’s goalkeeper market

Should Maignan join Chelsea, it would mark another significant statement of intent from the London club, who are once again being aggressive in the transfer market. Their focus this summer has shifted toward building a balanced and experienced core, and Maignan would bring both immediate quality and leadership to a young, evolving dressing room.

The knock-on effect, of course, has been felt throughout Europe. Milan’s scramble for a replacement is just one example of how a major goalkeeper move can shake up the market. Clubs are watching closely — and if Maignan’s transfer is confirmed in the coming weeks, don’t be surprised to see other dominoes fall quickly.

What next for Maignan, Milan and Perri?

If everything goes according to plan, Maignan will become Chelsea’s new No.1 well before pre-season begins. His arrival would significantly boost Chelsea’s backline and offer Enzo Maresca a solid foundation as he starts his new tenure at the helm.

For Milan, the focus will immediately turn to integrating Perri and ensuring he is ready to take on the weight of expectation at one of Italy’s biggest clubs. The club’s fanbase, proud and demanding in equal measure, will expect results quickly — and how Perri settles in could shape Milan’s fortunes in 2025.

Still, it’s worth remembering that Milan have a history of turning shrewd signings into stars. If Perri proves to be another inspired acquisition, then Maignan’s departure may yet become just another chapter in the Rossoneri’s long story of reinvention.