In his first explosive moves as Chelsea head coach, Enzo Maresca has launched an ambitious double transfer raid, targeting Liverpool's attacking prodigy Fabio Carvalho and a new shot-stopper, while making a seismic decision regarding the club's captaincy.
The Blues are ready to test the resolve of their Premier League rivals with a formal approach for Carvalho, who is expected to leave Anfield this summer following a mixed loan spell at Hull City. The 21-year-old Portuguese playmaker is seen as a perfect fit for Maresca's possession-dominant system, offering creativity and goal threat from an advanced midfield role.
James to Retain Captain's Armband Amid Defensive Reshuffle
In a major show of faith, Maresca has informed Reece James that he will remain as club captain for the upcoming campaign. This decision comes despite the England international's well-documented injury struggles, which limited him to just nine Premier League starts last season. The new boss is believed to be prioritising a specialist fitness programme to ensure his skipper can return to his world-class best.
Goalkeeping Conundrum: Kepa's Return and a New Number One
The goalkeeping department is also in for a significant shake-up. With Djordje Petrovic impressing after his mid-season arrival, the future of Kepa Arrizabalaga is once again under the spotlight. The Spanish goalkeeper is due to return from his loan at Real Madrid, but Chelsea are actively exploring the market for a new number one, signalling that Kepa's long-term future likely lies away from Stamford Bridge.
This aggressive start to the transfer window underscores the new ownership's full backing of Maresca's vision as they aim to build a squad capable of securing a return to the coveted UEFA Champions League.
