ENZO MARESCA’S Chelsea reign has been compared to an “X-Factor boot camp” after another star name was reportedly frozen out by the new boss.
The Italian has wielded the sword since arriving at Stamford Bridge, telling chiefs he has no need for big names like Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell, who is wanted by Manchester United.
Maresca has also seen directors move on former talented academy players like Conor Gallagher and Ian Maatsen.
While a host of other players including Armando Broja, Trevoh Chalobah and Romelu Lukaku are all closing in on exits before next week’s transfer deadline.
However, the Guardian claims another expensive signing is now in the firing line.
It’s reckoned French defender Axel Disasi is not in Maresca’s long-term plans following the arrival of Tosin Adarabioyo.
Chelsea also have Benoit Badiashile at centre-back, as well as the versatile Renato Veiga.
While Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana have already established themselves as the first-choice partnership for the new campaign.
Disasi only joined Chelsea a year ago from Monaco for £40million and made 44 appearances in all competitions under Mauricio Pochettino.
However, his lack of technical skill means he may not be suited to playing out from the back in Maresca’s possession-heavy system.
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And it’s now believed Chelsea are open to offers, with Newcastle already making an enquiry after having four offers turned down for Crystal Palace — and former Blues starlet — Marc Guehi.
Fans took to X to react to the new that Disasi was the latest big name to fall out of favour at Chelsea.
One said: “This is like X-Factor bootcamp. Need live reactions of everyone who’s making it through to the judges’ houses and who is getting culled.”
Another declared: “Maresca is cooking something.”
One noted: “Maresca at the wheel.”
Another added: “I hope he knows what he is doing.”
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Meanwhile, Chelsea have announced the signing of Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix on a permanent deal.
Elsewhere, Liverpool are reportedly closing in on the £29.9m signing of Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
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