Enzo Maresca is close to being announced as Chelsea’s next manager on a long-term deal, talkSPORT understands.
The Italian will depart Leicester after just one season where he guided the Foxes to an instant return to the Premier League by winning the Championship.
Chelsea have been scrambling to appoint a new boss following the club’s decision to axe Mauricio Pochettino after one campaign.
And talkSPORT understands Maresca has won the race to land the vacant job at Stamford Bridge.
Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna was also on Chelsea’s radar, but the ex-Manchester United youth coach is set to sign a new contract at Portman Road.
Meanwhile Roberto De Zerbi, who has just left Brighton, was another that was linked with Chelsea.
It is believed that Maresca only has minor details to iron out before he will be officially unveiled by the west London outfit.
The 44-year-old, who worked alongside Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, will sign a minimum five-year deal at Chelsea after agreeing personal terms.
Leicester are now eyeing up a replacement for Maresca, with West Brom’s Carlos Corberan among those in contention.
While many Chelsea fans are excited Maresca’s appointment, former Newcastle and Crystal Palace midfielder Darren Ambrose has labelled his style of play as ‘boring’.
He said on The Sports Bar: “I just think they’re hoping he’s learned off Pep – everyone is looking for the next Mikel Arteta.
“I know some Leicester supporters, they won the Championship and were still criticising the way they play.
“They pass you to death, this Leicester team, they pass everyone off the pitch, but it’s a bit boring.
News Summary:
- Chelsea closing in on Enzo Maresca appointment on long-term deal to succeed Mauricio Pochettino
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