Chelsea Make Brilliant move to hijacked £40k-per-week man first signing for Enzo Maresca take over
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Chelsea Set to Welcome New Talent as Maresca Takes the Helm
Maresca’s Arrival at Stamford Bridge
Chelsea is poised to welcome Enzo Maresca as their new head coach, providing him with an excellent beginning to his journey at Stamford Bridge. Despite the surprise departure of Mauricio Pochettino, who had led Chelsea to five straight Premier League victories to conclude the season, the club swiftly identified his replacement. Leicester City’s boss and former Manchester City assistant coach, Enzo Maresca, is the chosen one, with reports indicating a finalized deal and a substantial five-year contract awaiting him in West London.
Maresca’s Mixed Managerial Journey
Maresca’s career as a manager has seen its share of ups and downs. After a brief stint at Parma, where he was dismissed after just 14 games, he found success with Leicester City, guiding them to a Championship title. Now, at 44, Maresca steps into a Chelsea team undergoing significant changes and facing financial pressures that might necessitate the sale of homegrown stars like Conor Gallagher, Trevoh Chalobah, and Armando Broja by the end of June to meet financial fair play regulations.
First Signing in Sight: Tosin Adarabioyo
In a move that costs nothing, Chelsea seems to have secured their first signing under Maresca. According to Fabrizio Romano, the club has successfully intercepted Newcastle United’s pursuit of Tosin Adarabioyo, who is set to leave Fulham as his contract expires this summer.
Tosin’s Impact at Fulham and Future at Chelsea
The former Manchester City defender played a crucial role at Fulham under Marco Silva, making 18 appearances despite a groin injury that sidelined him for part of the season. Silva praised Tosin, calling him a “special player” whose absence was deeply felt during the initial three months of the season. Tosin’s defensive skills and ability to build from the back fit perfectly with Silva’s playing style.
With his £40,000 per week deal at Craven Cottage ending on July 1st and his decision not to renew, Tosin was expected to join another Premier League team. While Newcastle was leading the race, Chelsea’s late move, as revealed by Romano, now positions them as favorites to sign the 26-year-old center-back.
Consequences for Chelsea’s Defense
Tosin’s arrival could signal the departure of other defenders like Trevoh Chalobah, who is already behind Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, and Levi Colwill in the pecking order. Chalobah might seek opportunities elsewhere, with Manchester United and Tottenham reportedly interested, which could also help Chelsea’s financial situation if he is replaced by a free signing like Tosin.
Looking Ahead
Despite Chelsea’s qualification for only the UEFA Conference League next season, joining the Blues represents a significant step up for Tosin as the club aims to reclaim its position at the top of the Premier League.