Premier League News Chelsea set to sign Enzo Maresca as new manager Socceroos Harry Souttar Leicester City

Chelsea are on the verge of appointing Leicester’s Enzo Maresca as their new head coach, according to widespread reports in the British media.

The Daily Telegraph said the Italian will join the Blues on a five-year deal, plus an option for a further year, designed to give the club stability after two years of turmoil under the new regime led by American investors Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly . .

Maresca, who until last year was Pep Guardiola’s assistant at English champions Manchester City, has overseen Leicester’s immediate return to the Premier League following relegation 12 months ago.

Italian Maresca, 44, is also said to have impressed Chelsea chiefs with his style of football.

And Maresca’s move could have huge implications for Socceroos star Harry Souttar, who has spent the year in virtual exile at the Foxes.

Hop aboard Kayo and watch every match in every round of the NRL + AFL seasons live and ad-free during play. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today >

Souttar played just three league games all season – with one start – but still featured regularly for the Socceroos.

The 25-year-old is expected to leave promoted Leicester this off-season in search of first-team minutes – with Leicester having to offload players to meet their financial obligations under profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

But with Leicester now in need of a new manager, the Aussie could find his way back into regular first-team minutes on their return to the Premier League.

MORE NEWS

Socceroos future bright amid historic Aussie takeover of world’s top five leagues: ROO RADAR

The Matildas draw with a last minute goal as the veteran makes a big statement at the Olympics

Aussie young gun rejects Socceroos… for rival nation’s under-20s

London club Chelsea were looking for a new manager after parting ways with Mauricio Pochettino.

He spent just one season in charge at Stamford Bridge, alongside Brentford’s Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna, who led Ipswich to promotion to the top flight behind Leicester, also linked with the vacancy.

Pochettino left after a late surge saw Chelsea finish sixth in the Premier League – qualification for the Europa Conference League – but miss out on Champions League qualification and a trophy.

Chelsea lost the League Cup final 1-0 to Liverpool after extra time and pushed Manchester City all the way before losing in the FA Cup semi-finals by the same scoreline.

But there were signs of former Tottenham boss Pochettino’s side rallying on a five-game winning streak to end the campaign that ensured Chelsea will be involved in European competition next season.