Manchester United must look to take advantage of turmoil at AC Milan and sign goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
Four years ago this month, The Mirror reported Manchester United were lining up a £31 million move for promising French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who was starring for Lille.
The context behind the interest at the time was United’s worry about David de Gea leaving, potentially signing with Paris Saint-Germain.
De Gea went on to renew his contract, shelving interest in Maignan. It was a ‘sliding doors’ moment, one the Red Devils may regret.
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Mike Maignan one of Europe’s best
Mike Maignan went on to stay at Lille another two seasons before signing with AC Milan in 2021 as a replacement for PSG-bound Gianluigi Donnrumma.
He was an instant hit, leading AC Milan to win the Serie A title in his first season, ending a drought of 10 years.
Maignan has been a consistent performer for Milan this season too, helping them reach the Champions League semi-finals, and he has now succeeded Hugo Lloris as France’s number one.
The 27-year-old goalkeeper is an excellent distributor of the ball. He is strong at claiming crosses and has quick reflexes. Maignan embodies the modern goalkeeper, with a well-rounded game lacked by David de Gea.
Manchester United’s new Maignan chance
You might think Manchester United had missed the boat on Mike Maignan. However, turmoil at AC Milan may provide a new chance.
Milan have just fired club legend Paolo Maldini as technical director, waving goodbye with a curt three-line statement on their website.
Maignan rated Maldini highly, posting a tribute to him on social media with the works ‘always Milan’, reported Alfredo Pedulla.
Italian newspaper La Repubblica report Maignan is unhappy at the decision and is considering his future at the club.
This would be the perfect time for Manchester United to capitalise, and look to sign the goalkeeper to solve the side’s problem in goal.
The situation mirrors what happened back in 2019. David de Gea is hovering over a new contract, and Manchester United must stick or twist.
This time there is growing displeasure among the fanbase at De Gea’s performances. United are expected to sign a goalkeeper regardless, it’s just unclear whether it’s a new number one, or a young prospect.
Maignan would be a perfect alternative, who would transform the way Manchester United play. Let’s see if the club are bold enough to make a move.
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