Former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is the fourth ‘mystery’ candidate on Chelsea’s shortlist as they search for Mauricio Pochettino’s successor.
The west London club parted ways with Pochettino last week and have narrowed their search to four candidates.
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Chelsea’s primary target is believed to be Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna, renowned for his impressive back-to-back promotions and attacking style of play.
Leicester City’s Enzo Maresca, who edged out McKenna for the top spot in the Championship, and Brentford’s Thomas Frank are also in the running.
Initially, the fourth candidate was speculated to be either departing Barcelona boss Xavi or Como head coach—and former Chelsea player—Cesc Fabregas. However, the Daily Mail has confirmed that De Zerbi is the final candidate being considered.
De Zerbi left Brighton by mutual agreement at the end of the season, reportedly frustrated with the club’s investment and recruitment strategies, even taking a swipe at chairman Tony Bloom following their Europa League exit.
While De Zerbi’s release clause at Brighton was around £12 million, his departure means Chelsea would now need to pay a compensation fee of approximately £5 million if they choose him.
De Zerbi had been linked with the AC Milan job, but the compensation fee was too steep for the Serie A club, which is now set to hire Paulo Fonseca instead.
Chelsea is reportedly looking for a young, forward-thinking, progressive coach, and De Zerbi fits the profile.
Chelsea co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart briefly worked with De Zerbi at Brighton before moving to Stamford Bridge, with De Zerbi having replaced Graham Potter after Potter’s move to Chelsea.
De Zerbi has also previously worked with several current Chelsea players, including Moises Caicedo and Mykhailo Mudryk, who he coached at Shakhtar Donetsk.
Despite De Zerbi’s candidacy, McKenna remains Chelsea’s preferred option. However, McKenna also has an offer from Brighton and is in discussions with Manchester United, who might consider him if they decide to replace Erik ten Hag.
