Chelsea are now "ever-present" alongside Manchester City in the race to sign a teenage star who could cost over £50m, according to reports.
Maresca "happy" after "worst 48 hours" at Chelsea
It was only a few weeks ago that Chelsea found themselves in the title picture. It seemed for a moment that the Blues were Arsenal's closest challengers, having impressed in a 1-1 draw against the Gunners with 10 men. Following a run of one win in three Premier League games, however, they've been sent hurtling back down to reality.
Enzo Maresca also handed reporters an unexpected clue about behind-the-scenes problems after victory against Everton last time out, only making matters worse.
Since then, the Italian has been at the centre of much speculation, but told reporters that he's "happy" after Chelsea defeated Cardiff City to reach the last four of the Carabao Cup.
The Chelsea boss, following a tough week, said: "I said many times in many press conferences, the support, they have always been there, knowing that any supporters in the world when you don't win, they are not happy.
"So in some moments when you don't win games, they have been not happy, but it's normal. But overall, the fans have always been there.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca reacts
"I just said that these are the kind of games that I fall in love even more with the players because you cannot imagine how easy it is to slip, to slide, because they are tricky games."
For the time being at least, it seems as though BlueCo can turn their attention back towards the transfer market and away from any new potential manager.
Chelsea "ever-present" in Honest Ahanor race
As reported by TeamTalk, Chelsea are now "ever-present" in the race to sign Honest Ahanor from Atalanta after sending their scouts to watch the 17-year-old in action.
BlueCo are reportedly admirers of the teenage star, who has also attracted the interest of Newcastle United, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United to spark a fierce Premier League race.
A versatile defender who can play left-back, centre-back and even left-wing, Como scout Ben Mattinson described Ahanor as an "aggressive" player back in May.
Jørgensen Related
Fewer touches than Jorgensen, 80% duels lost: Maresca must drop Chelsea flop
It was a terrible night at the office for the Chelsea flop, who now has to be dropped by Maresca.
The Atalanta star is certainly one to watch, but won't come cheap for the likes of Chelsea. Reports have claimed that whilst he is happy in Italy, an offer of around €60m (£53m) could force Atalanta's hand next year.
Chelsea flop is now looking like a more pointless signing than Gittens