As per Fabrizio Romano’s report, Chelsea have finalized a deal to appoint Maresca as their new head coach, slated to replace Mauricio Pochettino under a lengthy contract. The agreement also includes an option for Chelsea to extend Maresca’s tenure by an additional year, potentially keeping him in charge at Stamford Bridge until 2030.

Leicester will receive compensation from Chelsea as they bid farewell to Maresca after his single season, during which he orchestrated their immediate return to the Premier League as Championship winners. Maresca, previously an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, implemented a tactical approach akin to his mentor’s with the Foxes, who amassed an impressive 97 points in their Championship campaign.

According to The Evening Standard, Chelsea swiftly targeted Maresca as their top choice following Pochettino’s departure last week, despite considering other candidates such as Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna and departing Barcelona manager Xavi. Maresca reportedly won Chelsea’s favor with his strategy to help their record signing, Enzo Fernandez, realize his full potential after a challenging start in west London.

Maresca’s official announcement as Chelsea’s new manager is anticipated in the coming days. He will inherit a squad that secured a sixth-place finish in the Premier League, securing a spot in the Europa Conference League. The 44-year-old will take charge during Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the United States, with fixtures against Wrexham, Celtic, Club America, Manchester City, and Real Madrid already scheduled.