Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has been linked with a high-profile move to Man City recently, and the Blues are believed to be thinking about replacements behind-the-scenes.
Their fairly inconsistent season under Maresca has left them still sitting in fourth after 17 matches, with Chelsea most recently fighting back to secure a hard-fought 2-2 draw at Newcastle United.
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The Italian has faced mounting scrutiny in recent weeks amid a fairly uninspiring run of just two wins from their last six in all competitions, including a damaging 3-1 defeat at Leeds, a loss to Atalanta in the Champions League and lifeless stalemate at Bournemouth.
Saturday's 2-2 comeback at St James' Park offered some encouragement after the Blues recovered from two goals down to salvage a point, but the performance highlighted the defensive fragility that has plagued Maresca's side throughout 25/26.
The manager has rotated a lot due to injuries and tactical experimentation so far, more than any other Premier League manager, and questions remain about whether Maresca's squad possesses the experience and quality to challenge Arsenal, Man City and Aston Villa at the summit.
In the last week, doubts have also begun to surface around Maresca's long-term future.
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The reliable David Ornstein broke news recently that City have identified him as a possible heir to Pep Guardiola, considering this could be the legendary Spaniard's final season at Eastlands.
While Maresca has publicly denied any interest in a return to City, where he once served as Guardiola's assistant during the treble-winning season, the 45-year-old caused quite a stir with his comments before Chelsea's 2-0 win over Everton.
The tactician claimed the 48 hours leading up to that game were the 'worst' of his career at Stamford Bridge, citing a lack of support, and with no context, many have speculated over tension with the Chelsea hierarchy.
Reports suggest Chelsea have candidates in mind to replace Maresca if he does leave, with one Spanish media source now claiming they could turn to an ex-defender of theirs.
Chelsea identify Filipe Luis as 'perfect fit' to replace Enzo Maresca
Indeed, it is now believed that Chelsea have turned their attention to Flamengo manager Filipe Luis as a 'perfect fit' to take over should Maresca depart.
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The young Brazilian coach has enjoyed a spectacular start to his managerial career in Rio de Janeiro.
Luis has transformed Flamengo into a dominant force both domestically and abroad since taking charge, winning multiple titles, including the Copa Libertadores, and guiding them to the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, where they were only beaten on penalties by PSG.
The 40-year-old's rapid success has attracted interest from several major European clubs, with Chelsea identifying him as a firm candidate to potentially step into Maresca's shoes.
Chelsea's main obstacle in securing Luis has been his contract situation at Flamengo, with the Brazilian Serie A side expected to offer him a lucrative extension following their recent success.
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Flamengo celebrate scoring against Chelsea at the Club World Cup.
However, reports suggest negotiations have cooled unexpectedly, opening a window of opportunity for European suitors to make their move.
Chelsea are reportedly prepared to advance on a pre-agreement that would secure him for the future, with Stamford Bridge chiefs believing his profile fits seamlessly with their project.
For now though, Maresca remains focused on Chelsea's upcoming fixtures as he attempts to guide the Blues back into title contention.
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