The Italian was chosen primarily by sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart from a four-man shortlist in the last week.

Co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali has also been in London for the process and is the key figure from the ownership across the potential appointment.

A combination of data, interviews and due diligence background checks have been utilised to find their top candidate.

The Blues believe Maresca will fit in the club structure, and they were impressed with his prior knowledge of the squad.

His background working as Guardiola’s assistant was also viewed positively, with board members impressed with the rebuilding job Mikel Arteta, another Guardiola protege, has done at Arsenal after leaving Etihad Stadium.

Chelsea believe they are building an elite structure and hope that a hands-on, tactically proficient coach can get the best out of their expensively assembled squad.

Former Manchester United assistant manager McKenna, who led Ipswich to promotion from the Championship, is being linked with Brighton, as well as with a return to Old Trafford if the FA Cup winners sack Erik ten Hag.

Ipswich want to keep hold of McKenna and are expected to offer him a new contract – although last week there were indications he would be unlikely to renew his deal.

He is contracted to Ipswich until 2027 and any club will need to pay at least £4m compensation.