Chelsea are reportedly planning a British record transfer just days after parting company with Enzo Maresca.
Last week, after Chelsea's 2-2 draw against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge, news began to filter through that Maresca's future was hanging in the balance.
On Thursday, the Italian's departure was officially confirmed by the club.
In a statement, Chelsea said: "Chelsea Football Club and Head Coach Enzo Maresca have parted company. During his time at the Club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Those achievements will remain an important part of the Club’s recent history, and we thank him for his contributions to the Club.
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"With key objectives still to play for across four competitions, including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the Club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track. We wish Enzo well for the future."
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On the back of Maresca's exit, Chelsea earned a 1-1 draw against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium thanks to a last-gasp goal by Enzo Fernandez.
On Monday, it was reported that Chelsea could be eyeing a transfer that would break the British record.
During the summer transfer window, Liverpool broke the British transfer record not once, but twice, when they signed Florian Wirtz for £116 million before splashing £125 million on Alexander Isak.
Now, according to The Guardian, Chelsea are 'plotting' a huge £135 million move for Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior.
The Brazilian superstar is said to be 'not too happy' in Madrid and 'is yet to agree an extension to his contract that runs until June 2027'.
As a result, it has been claimed that Madrid could open the door to selling Vinicius in order to prevent losing him on a free transfer when his contract runs out.
So far in the 25/26 season, Vinicius, 25, has scored five goals and assisted a further eight in 25 appearances across all competitions for Xabi Alonso's team.
Currently, Madrid are second in the La Liga table, four points adrift of fierce rivals Barcelona.
Los Blancos are back in action on Thursday night when they take on Atletico Madrid in the semi-final of the Supercopa de Espana.
Topics: Chelsea, Enzo Maresca, Real Madrid, Vinicius Jr
Marcus Chan