Chelsea have free transfer opportunity after Robert Sanchez's red in Man Utd defeat

Chelsea were forced to make changes early on at Manchester United as Robert Sanchez was sent off just minutes into the Premier League clash, and one transfer target could fix their problems long term

Chelsea's goalkeeper Robert Sanchez saw red in a major blow for the Blues against Manchester United, and the Blues know they have the chance to reignite their pursuit of AC Milan's Mike Maignan.

Sanchez was given his marching orders just five minutes into the match at Manchester United after a challenge on Bryan Mbeumo outside the box. Despite a VAR check, the ref's decision stood, forcing Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca to reshuffle his pack early doors.

The Blues manager made a double switch, bringing on Filip Jorgensen between the sticks and Tosin Adarabioyo to bolster the backline, replacing Estevao Willian and Pedro Neto. However, United captain Bruno Fernandes broke the deadlock less than 10 minutes after Sanchez's dismissal.

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While the Spanish keeper will only sit out Tuesday's Carabao Cup tie against Lincoln City, the incident could serve as the incentive Chelsea need to dip back into the transfer market for a new shot-stopper, following their summer interest in Maignan.

The Blues first showed interest in June, but Milan were not keen to let go of their French international. They slapped a £25million price tag on the 30-year-old, but Chelsea didn't seem in a rush to seal the deal.

It was believed that Chelsea were happy with their goalkeeping options in Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen.

However, with Maignan's contract at San Siro set to expire next year, he'll be free to discuss a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside Italy from January.

Chelsea could steal a march on their rivals by securing a deal now, allowing them to snap up the player on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Maresca is said to be a fan of Maignan and reportedly sees him as the perfect fit for his tactical game plan.

Earlier this month, it was reported that the appointment of Massimiliano Allegri played a pivotal role in persuading Maignan to stay put at Milan over the summer.

The new gaffer quickly confirmed that Maignan would keep the captain's armband and highlighted retaining the goalie as a key factor in his decision to take the helm.

However, there has allegedly been no headway on a new contract to keep Maignan in Italy, giving Chelsea a chance to reignite their chase.

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