Enzo Maresca, the anticipated new manager for Chelsea, is set to focus on bolstering the squad in three critical areas during the upcoming transfer window.
Expected to succeed Mauricio Pochettino, Maresca’s appointment is likely to be confirmed within the next day, and he’s poised to commit to a five-year tenure.
- INEOS given deadline by UEFA as Man Utd face Europa League ban
- Enzo Maresca has made his feelings clear on Cole Palmer ahead of Chelsea move
- Ten Hag sacking verdict reached after Man Utd’s FA Cup victory
Chelsea has reportedly settled on a £10 million fee to secure Maresca from Leicester City, the reigning champions of the Championship division.
Despite being on vacation and awaiting official confirmation, Maresca is already strategizing his transfer targets for his inaugural season at Stamford Bridge.
According to The Telegraph, the 44-year-old’s transfer strategy will center on acquiring a new goalkeeper, left-back, and striker.
However, this task may prove challenging, as Chelsea must adhere to Profit and Sustainability regulations after a £1 billion spending spree on transfers under Todd Boehly’s ownership.
The club has previously invested heavily in these positions and must consider offloading existing players to make room for new arrivals.
Last summer, Chelsea invested £40 million in goalkeepers Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic, yet neither has cemented themselves as the definitive first-choice, particularly after a season of conceding a record number of goals in the Premier League.
Kepa Arrizabalaga, the record-breaking goalkeeper, is expected to return to Chelsea following a loan spell at Real Madrid.
With vice-captain Ben Chilwell unlikely to depart, Marc Cucurella, whose performance has been lackluster since his £55.5 million transfer from Brighton, might be facing an exit.
Ian Maatsen’s impressive stint at left-back during his loan to Borussia Dortmund might not prevent a sale as Chelsea seeks to generate funds.
In the attacking department, Maresca will have a wealth of options, including the addition of the promising young winger Estevao Willian, who is on the verge of signing for an initial fee of £29 million.
Despite having already spent over £300 million on players like Raheem Sterling, Christopher Nkunku, Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Noni Madueke, it’s uncertain which players will align with Maresca’s vision for the team.
