Mike Maignan is staying at AC Milan, despite interest from Chelsea this summer, confirmed manager Massimiliano Allegri.
The Frenchman became a target for the Blues before the Club World Cup, with the goalkeeper reportedly interested in a move to Stamford Bridge.
However, the two clubs could not agree on a fee for the 30-year-old, with the Premier League outfit unwilling to pay more than £15m for his services.
AC Milan wanted at least £20m for their captain, despite him only having one year left on his contract at the San Siro.
With a relatively small gap between the two valuations, it seemed possible that Chelsea could return with an acceptable bid for the experienced ‘keeper.
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However, Allegri says Maignan has decided to stay with the club he joined in 2021, with a move to west London off the table.
‘Maignan remains the captain and is one of the best goalkeepers in Europe,’ Allegri said on Monday. ‘I am very happy he decided to stay.’
Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation was an issue last season, with Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen battling for the gloves and neither of them looking especially convincing when they had them.
The club clearly acknowledged the problem by pursuing Maignan, but the issue remains unresolved now he is staying at the San Siro.
The 57-year-old Milan boss also ruled out an exit for Portugal international Rafael Leao, who has been linked with a move this summer.
Arsenal, Liverpool and Bayern Munich have all been touted as possible destinations for the winger, but Allegri insists Leao is not leaving either.
‘Rafa can do excellent things next season. I’m sure I can bring out that extra something he’s been missing,’ said Allegri.
‘He’s reaching the age where a player performs at his peak.’
There is set to be at least one high profile arrival at AC Milan this summer, with Luka Modric arriving from Real Madrid.
The veteran midfielder turns 40 in September, but will play in Serie A for the first time next season, joining his new teammates when he has finished his duties at the Club World Cup.
‘We are waiting for Luka Modric,’ said Allegri. ‘He will arrive in August, he is currently with his team at the Club World Cup.
‘Luka Modric is an important and exceptional player. He does not need an introduction.’