Transfer News: Chelsea suffer blow before Club World Cup

Chelsea have reportedly encountered a major disappointment ahead of their participation in the Club World Cup.

While the Blues celebrated a Conference League final victory last month, head coach Enzo Maresca praised his squad's character. 

Ahead of Tuesday's transfer deadline for Club World Cup registration, the West Londoners had been attempting to finalise the acquisitions of AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan and Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Blues and Milan were unable to reach a compromise over a transfer fee for the French international, meaning a deal will not be completed in time for the Club World Cup.

Reports had suggested that the clubs were nearing an agreement, with Chelsea reportedly willing to offer as much as £18 million, close to Milan's valuation, which ranged between £20 million and £25 million. 

Despite Maignan reportedly expressing a desire to leave San Siro and not extend his contract beyond 2026, a consensus on the fee proved elusive.

Chelsea are reportedly unwilling to pay an inflated transfer fee from selling clubs before or after the summer event in the United States. 

Enzo Maresca’s team will face LAFC on June 16, Flamengo on June 20 and ES Tunis five days later in their Club World Cup campaign.