Former Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca has agreed terms on a five-year deal with Chelsea to become their new head coach.
The 44-year-old will now succeed the departed Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge.
Enzo will move from Leicester after leading them back to the Premier League by winning the Championship.
It is understood that work on his contract is still being finalised by lawyers and an official announcement could be made before the weekend.
The length of contract reflects the fact that everyone is focused on bringing long-term success back to Chelsea and ends any future speculation about renewals.
Chelsea co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart had travelled to Marbella for face-to-face talks with the Italian after Leicester gave permission for discussions to commence.
The Italian’s release clause at the King Power Stadium is understood to have been between 8 million pounds and 10 million pounds.
Reports say that the Chelsea representatives were impressed by the depth and breadth of Enzo Maresca’s knowledge about their squad, as well as his focus on the way Chelsea want to play and his desire for the job.
Related Posts
- What to Expect From Chelsea Bound Maresca, Tactics, Influence
- Pochettino, Chelsea part ways after one season
- Pep Guardiola Hits Out Against United, Arsenal, Chelsea
Enzo Maresca’s obsession with possession and positional play made him the leading candidate to replace Pochettino, as one of their prime criteria for the job was someone who would “able to compete with Guardiola and Arteta“.
Senior Chelsea figures believe the new head coach will be the final piece of the jigsaw to fit into the new modern structure they are trying to build at the club.
The west London club expects to be busy in the transfer market this summer with players coming and going.
The summer window is likely to see the signing of a new No.9 and centre-back, while the futures of high-earners such as Romelu Lukaku and Kepa Arrizabalaga would need to be resolved.
