Chelsea initiate new approach for Samu Aghehowa as Enzo Maresca seeks striker
Enzo Maresca’s role at Chelsea is facing increased scrutiny following a disastrous December that has diminished the club’s title hopes. Bookmakers have lowered the odds on the Italian becoming the next manager to be dismissed in the Premier League.
Football Insider indicates that Maresca’s odds stand at 8/1 for being sacked, positioning him as the joint-third favorite behind Nuno Espirito Santo and Scott Parker. Reports suggest that BlueCo is already formulating contingency strategies in case they need to part ways with Maresca, although no official decision has been made regarding the coach’s future. The 45-year-old still holds some merit from last season’s success in the Conference League and Club World Cup, coupled with securing Champions League qualification, but the decline in December has significantly shaken confidence in his capability to drive sustained improvement.
Related
Chelsea have ‘exceptional’ coach lined up if they decide on sacking Maresca
The Italian faces growing pressure.
Chelsea currently sits in a disappointing 13th place regarding home performance this season, managing only seven points out of a possible 21 during their recent poor stretch. Losses against Aston Villa and dropped points against a Bournemouth team that has not won in nine matches have been especially harmful, leading fans to question if Maresca is the right leader moving forward. Former Barcelona manager Xavi has emerged as the favorite for replacement at 5/1, followed closely by Marco Silva at 6/1. Liam Rosenior, the manager of Strasbourg, remains a favored candidate by BlueCo ownership should a change be deemed necessary, though the club prefers to conduct a thorough review in the summer rather than make hasty decisions mid-season (Simon Phillips).
Maresca’s public remarks about experiencing his ‘worst 48 hours’ at the club following the Everton win have ignited speculation about possible tensions with sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart. Ex-Man United striker Wayne Rooney cautioned that such comments might have jeopardized Maresca’s essential backing from the owners if performances continue to decline, implying that he has weakened his own position by seemingly questioning those who appointed him. The upcoming matches against Man City and Arsenal could be pivotal in determining Maresca’s future; however, for now, Chelsea is on the hunt for a solution to their striker dilemma. Liam Delap has been lackluster since his transfer from Ipswich this summer, partly due to injuries, but Chelsea feels they are deficient in striking quality.
Chelsea pursuing ‘new opportunity’ for FC Porto striker Samu Aghehowa
That information comes from Simon Phillips, who has received word from his sources about renewed interest in FC Porto striker Samu Aghehowa.
The Spaniard has made quite an impact in the Primeira Liga since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2024, generating renewed interest from Chelsea after a near-signing that same summer.
Phillips reports on his Substack that Chelsea could make another attempt to sign Aghehowa, despite his substantial £87 million release clause. He also points out what is ‘uncommon’ about this development from his sources.
“We are hearing about a new approach to sign the 21-year-old striker,” the journalist stated.
“Samu has netted 18 goals in 24 matches for Porto this season, while he concluded the last campaign with 27 goals in 45 games.
“He has captured Chelsea’s attention once more, and what’s rare is that I’ve been informed about his name by not only one, but two of my top sources in just this past week. This indicates that there is serious interest, and I would assume that contact has been established with his representatives.
“This is now more than a storyline to follow, as Chelsea recognizes their ongoing shortfall in the number 9 position.”
Additional reports suggest Chelsea is up against tough competition from Tottenham for the 21-year-old, who is also in search of alternatives to players like Richarlison and Dominic Solanke.
Related
Ideal Delap successor: Chelsea initiate contact to acquire “complete” £44m CF
Chelsea is reportedly keen on a deal to bring in a player who would serve as a fitting replacement for Liam Delap.
Published: 2025-12-31 18:20:00
source: www.footballfancast.com
