New Chelsea Manager ‘Will Not Have Control Over Transfers as Chelsea Identify Target Areas for Improvement’

Chelsea have reportedly outlined their approach to managing new head coach Enzo Maresca’s role in transfers and identified key areas for squad enhancement ahead of the 2024-25 season.

Recently, Chelsea mutually agreed with Mauricio Pochettino to part ways, prompting co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, along with co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, to swiftly seek a replacement. Several days of negotiations are expected to culminate in Leicester City manager Maresca signing a contract for at least five years by the end of the week.

The Chelsea hierarchy believes Maresca is the ideal fit for their business model and possession-based style of play.

Limited Transfer Influence for Maresca

Despite being impressed with Maresca’s potential contributions, Chelsea plans to limit his control over player acquisitions. According to Nick Purewal of the Evening Standard, Maresca will not have the final say on incoming transfers during the summer window. Instead, his input will be considered to ensure alignment and cooperation within Chelsea’s structure to achieve success on the pitch.

The report also indicates that Chelsea aims to strengthen four specific positions in their squad, with certain names already on their shortlist.

Osimhen Leads Chelsea’s Transfer Targets

Chelsea is reportedly seeking to sign a new goalkeeper, center-back, left-back, and center-forward for the upcoming season. Despite challenges related to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations and UEFA’s rules, Napoli forward Victor Osimhen remains their top target for the attacking position.

In addition, Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford and Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo are also being considered, with Adarabioyo available on a free transfer. For the left-back position, Marc Cucurella’s strong performances towards the end of Pochettino’s tenure have highlighted his potential, while Ben Chilwell may face competition for his spot.

Djordje Petrovic, who has shown promise since joining from New England Revolution, is viewed as valuable, but Maresca may prefer a goalkeeper with better ball-playing skills to initiate attacks from the back.