Chelsea not considering Roberto De Zerbi

Chelsea are not considering appointing Brighton and Hove Albion manager Roberto de Zerbi, so much so sources find the links to the Italian funny, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The Lowdown: Candidate shortlist

The Premier League giants may have secured a much-needed 1-0 victory over Leeds United last weekend but Graham Potter will still be under pressure to turn his side’s form around.

Todd Boehly has reportedly already made contact with Mauricio Pochettino and is an admirer of Zinedine Zidane should the 47-year-old be sacked, and the Seagulls boss is the most recent name to have been added to the shortlist.

Football Insider claim that the Blues are keen on the Italian, who would be interested in taking the job, though a significant update has now emerged to the contrary.

The Latest: De Zerbi verdict

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Phillips was asked whether Chelsea have indeed identified De Zerbi as a potential managerial candidate, to which he replied:

“I have asked the question, but the sources I’ve spoken to just laughed back at me, so I don’t think there’s anything in this at the moment.

“It’s obviously because he’s doing well at Brighton, so it’s probably just stemmed from there and the fact that Chelsea went for Potter and now De Zerbi is doing well. Probably some links have just been brought out from nothing.”

Would you take De Zerbi at Chelsea?

Yes, he'd be perfect!

No, look elsewhere!

The Verdict: Ideal candidate?

De Zerbi has done a magnificent job at Brighton since joining and it could well be worth Chelsea raiding The Amex for a second time should they relieve Potter of his duties, so perhaps those at the club should genuinely consider double dipping.

The 43-year-old has won 11, drawn four and lost seven of his opening 22 games in charge and is able to get his team performing on a consistent basis, particularly in the final third.

Brighton have not only secured an FA Cup quarter-final place but they are also just seven points off the Champions League spots with games in hand, having won four of their last five home matches.

De Zerbi knows what it takes to be successful having secured two trophies during his managerial career so he could be a risk worth taking if Chelsea are looking for a long-term appointment.