Chelsea make approach for Premier League manager to replace Enzo Maresca | Football

Chelsea have made a move for Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe as Enzo Maresca’s replacement, according to reports.

Maresca’s 18-month spell at Stamford Bridge came to an end on New Year’s Day following a series of disagreements between the 45-year-old and the club’s hierarchy.

Liam Rosenior, the current head coach of Strasbourg, who are also part of the BlueCo group with Chelsea, is favourite to replace Maresca.

However, The Sunday Express reports that Chelsea have sounded out Howe and talks have been held with the 48-year-old’s representatives.

The report adds that Howe would receive a ‘significant payrise’ if he opted to make the move to Stamford Bridge, while Chelsea’s board hold the Newcastle manager ‘in high esteem’.

Howe has been Newcastle manager for over four years and guided the team to their first domestic trophy in 70 years with their victory in the Carabao Cup final last season.

The former Bournemouth boss still has over three years remaining on his deal with Newcastle.

Rosenior, meanwhile, was asked again about his links with a move to Chelsea after Strasbourg’s 1-1 draw with Nice on Saturday evening.

Asked if it was his final game in charge of the Ligue 1 club, Rosenior replied: ‘I don’t know, to be honest.

‘I said it in the press conference, you never know what might happen in life. It’s difficult to describe the connection I have with this group. I feel loved, I’ve loved this job from the start.

‘My answer remains the same – I don’t know. Nothing is concrete, there are no concrete discussions.

‘I just want to focus on the team, on the club, which is a magnificent club. What will be, will be, I have to stay focused on the present moment. It’s a beautiful city, with wonderful people, a fantastic club. I’ve loved everything about it. The players have been incredible. I truly want the best for this club.’

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

MORE: Jamie Redknapp makes Eberechi Eze claim after Arsenal beat Bournemouth

MORE: Declan Rice hails ‘unreal’ Arsenal teammate after Bournemouth win

MORE: Why Bukayo Saka is on the bench for Arsenal against Bournemouth tonight