Chelsea appear to be closing in on the appointment of Enzo Maresca after the Leicester City boss emerged as the favoured candidate over the weekend.

Enzo Maresca looks set to replace Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge after the Argentine left by mutual consent last week. 

The Blues have targeted an up-and-coming manager after Pochettino’s departure, with the likes of Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank and Roberto De Zerbi previously in the frame. 

Maresca guided Leicester to a Championship title last season after a year of working as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City.

Of course, Mikel Arteta also worked under the City boss at the Etihad Stadium and has gone on to enjoy success at Arsenal. 

Arteta has scooped an FA Cup during his time at the Emirates while also pushing City close in the Premier League title race over the past couple of seasons. 

And it would appear that Chelsea hope Maresca can have a similar impact in west London.

READ MORE: Fabrizio Romano says there’s still one thing to finalise between Chelsea and Enzo Maresca

Why Arsenal have ‘studied’ Arteta’s spell at Arsenal

According to The Mail, Chelsea have ‘studied’ Arteta’s success at Arsenal in recent years. 

The Gunners boss endured tough spells in north London after back-to-back eighth-place finishes in his first two seasons.

But he now has Arsenal competing right at the top end of the table after leaving Guardiola’s backroom staff.

It’s noted that Chelsea have similar hopes for Maresca due to his work on the training ground.

READ MORE: Chelsea now considering last-ditch move to sign ‘special’ player as Enzo Maresca’s first signing

Arteta is the benchmark for Premier League clubs

Despite the fact that Arteta is yet to get over the line when it comes to securing a title, many clubs will be keen to replicate his success at Arsenal.

There have been times when the Spaniard was under huge pressure but the club stuck by their man and they are now reaping the rewards.

Whether or not Maresca will get similar backing from the Chelsea board remains to be seen.

The Blues haven’t exactly shown patience with managers during the Todd Boehly era. Pochettino’s departure came at a bizarre time after the Argentine had won five of his last six league games in charge.