Chelsea’s sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart are expected to fly to Spain today to negotiate a deal to bring Enzo Maresca to Stamford Bridge, football.london understands.
There has been initial contact between Chelsea and Maresca but nothing has been agreed on just yet. The Italian coach has been identified as the club’s first-choice to replace Mauricio Pochettino following his departure a week ago.
Chelsea are said to have been mightily impressed with how Maresca has presented himself thus far. The 44-year-old’s style of play, something he showcased at Leicester City during their Championship-winning 2023/24 season, is another key factor in all of this with the Italian’s approach clearly influenced by Pep Guardiola – a man he worked under at Manchester City.
A front-foot style is something Chelsea chiefs are desperate for following the exit of Pochettino. While Kieran McKenna was considered, it now looks like the Ipswich Town boss will stay at Portman Road for their first season back in the top-flight for 22 years, with Thomas Frank and Roberto De Zerbi also options.
It looks as if Chelsea have found their man, though, in Maresca. All being well for the Blues and the Italian will pen a five-year contract with the club, football.london understands.
Pochettino was given a two-year contract when he was appointed head coach, with the option of a further 12 months. Chelsea are effectively going ‘all in’ on Maresca, who they believe to be the final piece of the jigsaw to get the club competing at the very top once again.
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Chelsea are hopeful of an appointment being reached by the end of this week, sources have told football.london, meaning Maresca would be at the club well in time for the pre-season campaign to begin. While a deal is not done just yet, Chelsea’s search for a new head coach looks to be coming to its conclusion already with the hierarchy at the club working tirelessly to ensure a swift process in replacing Pochettino.
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