‘Under consideration’ Chelsea ‘keeping a close eye’ on 44-year-old as potential new manager - journalist

Journalist Simon Phillips has now reported that Chelsea are keeping a close eye on one manager ahead of the end of the season.

He told his Substack that the club are taking extra interest in one name as a potential Mauricio Pochettino replacement this summer.

Pochettino is so far yet to impress supporters at Stamford Bridge, with many not convinced he is the man to lead them into the future.

Pochettino under pressure at Chelsea

It also looks as if he may miss out on European football for next season at this rate, a feat which would be close to inexcusable based on how the season has gone as a while.

This has therefore of course seen rumours begin to spread about the club already considering their options ahead of next season, and now taking particular interest in a new candidate.

Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images

Xavi is set to leave Barcelona at the end of the season, even if he helps the side to Champions League glory at the end of this campaign.

Phillips has claimed that the Blues have been alerted to his situation, and are weighing up the possibility of bringing him in.

Chelsea weighing up Xavi

He said: “Another name that I haven’t reported yet but is also now on the same shortlist and would be under consideration, is Barcelona manager Xavi.

“Obviously his future is a little unclear right now, and Chelsea have been alerted to it and are keeping a close eye on him.“

Xavi joins a long list of candidates who have already reportedly been considered for the role if Pochettino does not turn things around.

The club have reportedly looked a bit closer to home as well for their potential new boss, with Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi being mentioned as a possibility.

The Italian has over a year of experience in the Premier League under his belt now, and also has worked with a number of key first team players already at Stamford Bridge in the past.

Moises Caicedo, Levi Colwill and Mykhailo Mudryk have all enjoyed strong individual spell under him already, and this could actually make him the best option for the job right now.