Chelsea close in on Mauricio Pochettino replacement after positive talks with coach

Chelsea are moving towards appointing Enzo Maresca as their new head coach, LondonWorld understands.

The Italian manager has been identified as one of the frontrunners to replace Mauricio Pochettino after positive meetings with the Chelsea hierarchy over the weekend.

Maresca, who has an £8million release clause in his current contract, led Leicester City to the Premier League in his debut Championship season.

He was previously assistant manager to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City where he enjoyed a treble-winning campaign.

Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna was also considered as a possible option to replace Pochettino, but he is no longer in contention, while Thomas Frank is another name who has been linked in recent days.

Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi is also admired with the Chelsea ownership being long-term admirers of the Italian coach.