Chelsea are in a race against time to finalise two key transfers ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, with the club prioritising the signing of AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan and continuing negotiations for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens.

The Blues, like many other participants in FIFA's revamped Club World Cup, are aiming to conclude their transfer dealings early in order to register new players ahead of the tournament. Manager Enzo Maresca is keen to reinforce his squad, with a new first-choice goalkeeper topping his list of priorities.

Chelsea have submitted a fresh bid of £15 million for Maignan, who has just one year remaining on his contract at San Siro. The London club’s initial offer of £10 million fell significantly short of Milan’s £25 million valuation. Talks remain ongoing, but there is optimism a deal can be struck in time.

Should an agreement be reached, the France international is expected to become Chelsea’s new No.1. The 29-year-old is reportedly eager to make the move to Stamford Bridge, where several goalkeepers have failed to cement their place as a long-term solution in recent seasons.

Chelsea are also bracing for the departure of Kepa Arrizabalaga, who is on the verge of joining Arsenal in a £5 million move. The Spaniard, having spent multiple spells out on loan—most recently at Bournemouth—has been deemed surplus to requirements. His departure has been facilitated by a release clause in his contract.

In addition to Maignan, Chelsea remain in active discussions with Borussia Dortmund over England Under-21 winger Jamie Gittens. The 20-year-old, who previously spent time in Chelsea’s youth system before moving to Germany in search of first-team football, has emerged as a top target.

The west London club saw an opening bid of £29.5 million rejected, as reported by the Evening Standard, with Dortmund reportedly holding out for a fee closer to £50 million. Gittens follows in the footsteps of fellow Englishmen Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham, who both flourished at Dortmund.

Both Chelsea and Dortmund are due to compete in the upcoming Club World Cup in the United States, and must complete any prospective transfers by Tuesday night to ensure new signings are eligible for the tournament.

Meanwhile, Chelsea have confirmed the £12 million signing of teenage centre-back Mamadou Sarr from sister club Strasbourg. Maresca’s biggest addition to date remains Liam Delap, who joined from Ipswich in a £30 million deal.