Reports have emerged that Luis Enrique has flown to London amid links to Chelsea. The Blues are currently in search of a new manager following the sacking of Graham Potter on Sunday. Enrique is reportedly one of the favourites to take over, with Chelsea having made initial contact earlier this week.
According to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, Enrique is in London for further talks with Chelsea today. The club is hopeful that the former Spain boss will take over immediately, with caretaker boss Bruno Saltor potentially unwilling to stay until the end of the season due to his connection to Potter.
If Enrique is unwilling to take charge now, it is understood that Todd Boehly could appoint Frank Lampard on an interim basis until the end of the season. However, former Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann is another option and is believed to still be high on the Blues’ wishlist. The club has also contacted the German over the role, with Fabrizio Romano reporting talks are set to continue with the 35-year-old.
Chelsea are believed to have a shortlist of seven names, including Fulham boss Marco Silva and Mauricio Pochettino. However, Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi is not being considered despite Chelsea admiring the work he has done since arriving in the Premier League.
Nagelsmann is also wanted by Tottenham and Real Madrid as a potential successor for Carlo Ancelotti. Spurs sacked Antonio Conte last week and have been tipped to re-appoint Pochettino.
The situation at Chelsea remains fluid, with no clear indication as yet as to who will take over from Potter. However, it is clear that Enrique is a strong contender for the role, and his presence in London suggests that talks are progressing well. Fans will be eagerly awaiting further developments in the coming days and weeks as the club looks to secure a new manager ahead of a crucial period in the season.