Chelsea Circle Newcastle's Howe as Rosenior Alternative Emerges

Chelsea have entered the managerial market in earnest, casting their net wide after parting ways with Enzo Maresca on Thursday morning. The Italian's tenure became untenable following a dismal run that saw the Blues claim just one victory in their last seven Premier League outings.

Tensions had been simmering between Maresca and the club's hierarchy over perceived backing issues, while speculation has mounted regarding his potential interest in the Manchester City job as Pep Guardiola's successor.

The west London club's search has centred on Strasbourg's Liam Rosenior, who remains the leading candidate according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano. The Frenchman posted on Friday evening that Chelsea were "advancing in the process to get a new head coach as soon as possible" with Rosenior at the forefront of discussions. Reports have even suggested an agreement could be struck between the club and the former Chelsea employee, who spent two seasons working for BlueCo in France.

However, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has now emerged on Chelsea's radar as a potential alternative, according to Football Insider. The 48-year-old faces a decision over whether to abandon his project at St James' Park mid-season to join an organisation notorious for its managerial turnover.

Howe's credentials as a proven Premier League operator make him an attractive proposition, though securing his services would require Newcastle's cooperation and his willingness to leave.

Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner has also entered the conversation. Pundit Jason Cundy expressed his preference for the Palace boss, highlighting his impressive work with the Eagles despite their financial constraints. "He's an excellent manager," Cundy said. "Chelsea aren't going to poach the very best—we won't get Pep—but look at what Glasner's achieved at Palace given their limitations."

Fellow analyst Jermaine Pennant echoed this sentiment, emphasising the value of proven Premier League experience. "He's lost key players left and right and still delivers," Pennant noted. "A manager who can perform in the Premier League year after year, especially with one hand tied behind their back at Palace, is a no-brainer. That's not a risk like Rosenior could be—get the wrong manager and your club's in freefall."