Manchester City are reportedly placing Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca prominently on their shortlist of candidates to succeed Pep Guardiola, according to The Athletic.
Despite the Catalan manager penning a contract extension last November that commits him to the Etihad until 2027, there is mounting expectation within the club that this campaign may prove to be his last.
Reports say that a definitive decision regarding Guardiola's future will likely emerge as the season draws to a close.
The 54-year-old himself hinted at stepping back from management earlier this year, telling ESPN Brasil in May: "After my contract with City, I'm going to stop. I am sure. I don't know if I'm going to retire, but I'm going to take a break."
Enzo Maresca is seen as one of the early favourites to succeed Pep Guardiola at City
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City's interest in the Italian tactician stems from his deep familiarity with the club's operations and philosophy.
Maresca first joined the Manchester outfit in 2020, taking charge of their Elite Development Squad before departing the following year.
He subsequently returned to the Etihad in 2022, serving as Guardiola's assistant during the remarkable treble-winning 2022/23 season when City claimed the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.
The 45-year-old is understood to have retained admirers within the club's hierarchy during his time there.
Following his departure from City, Maresca took the reins at Leicester City, successfully guiding the Foxes back to the top flight at the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign.
Enzo Maresca's side won the game comfortably | PAThe west London club find themselves in a robust negotiating position should City come calling, with Maresca contracted at Stamford Bridge until 2030 when including the option of an additional year.
Any approach from the Premier League champions would necessitate significant compensation to prise the Italian away from his current employers.
It is worth noting that Maresca recently switched representation, joining Jorge Mendes' Gestifute agency, a move that would facilitate any potential negotiations regarding an early departure from Chelsea.
However, reports suggest Maresca would not be the sole candidate under consideration at the Etihad, with City understood to be compiling a broader list of targets.
Maresca's position at Chelsea has been the subject of scrutiny following cryptic remarks he made after the Blues' 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday.
Enzo Maresca worked with Pep Guardiola for one season at Manchester City | PAThe Italian described the build-up to that match as "the worst 48 hours" of his tenure, alleging that "people" had failed to show adequate support for him and his players.
He has since declined to elaborate on precisely whom he was referring to, though club insiders suspect the comments may be connected to the City speculation.
Pep Guardiola could leave City at the end of the season
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When questioned about his relationship with Chelsea's ownership on Monday, Maresca responded simply: "It's OK, it's good."
The manager has insisted he remains "absolutely" content at Stamford Bridge, having delivered the Conference League and Club World Cup during his first season in charge.