Chelsea and Manchester City are locked in talks over compensation for Enzo Maresca, with sources at Stamford Bridge believing his sudden exit was a major factor in their implosion this season.

Maresca, who is set to take over, was contracted to Chelsea until 2029 when he suddenly exited on New Year's Day. It then emerged that the 46-year-old Italian had previously informed his employers how he had spoken to City representatives over the possibility of replacing Guardiola this summer.

Sources within Stamford Bridge believe Maresca's mid-season exit contributed to their campaign imploding, as they ended up finishing 10th in the Premier League and missed out on European qualification entirely. 

Chelsea insiders were also less than impressed with Maresca's behaviour in the build-up to his departure, such as his 'worst 48 hours' comments made less than three weeks before he and the club officially 'parted ways'.

Sources are not disclosing the value of the compensation package that Chelsea are seeking from City, though it is presumably significant. He had three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract - or four-and-a-half if including the club option of an additional year - and Chelsea appeared on course to qualify for the Champions League before their season blew up.

Maresca has long been the favourite to take over from Guardiola, who he previously assisted, including in 2022–23 when City clinched the treble. The choice of Maresca has come with Guardiola's blessing. A three-year deal has been proposed by City, it is understood. It is not known whether these compensation talks will delay any announcement.

Tottenham, Real Madrid, Juventus and AC Milan previously contacted Maresca's representative, Jorge Mendes, but he only ever appeared to have eyes for City after leaving Chelsea, with whom he won the Club World Cup and Conference League.

Both Chelsea and City were contacted for comment by Daily Mail Sport.