Chelsea are set to unveil Enzo Maresca as their new head coach on Monday, after the 44-year-old Italian has agreed to a five-year contract.
Maresca steps in to replace Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge after just a year.
Maresca makes the move from Leicester City, where he recently led the team back to the Premier League by winning the Championship.
Maresca emerged as Chelsea’s top choice from a shortlist that included Brentford’s Thomas Frank, Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna, and Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi.
The Italian’s release clause from Leicester is reported to be between £8 million and £10 million.
According to Sky Sports, Maresca will bring six members of his Leicester backroom staff with him, including former Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero.
The recruitment process was spearheaded by Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, under the guidance of co-owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.
Winstanley and Stewart believe Maresca is the right man for Chelsea after being impressed by his detailed understanding of Chelsea’s squad and his vision for the team’s playing style.
Maresca’s focus on possession and positional play was a key factor in his selection.
He replaces Pochettino, who left the club by mutual consent, and is expected to bring a fresh tactical approach to Stamford Bridge.
