Liverpool manager Arne Slot has tipped Chelsea as title contenders, having also said he expected the west Londoners to beat his side to the Premier League trophy last season. Chelsea finished fourth last term, 15 points behind champions Liverpool, and Maresca was adamant he had no interest in any so-called 'mind games' from rival managers.

Enzo Maresca wants Chelsea to sign a centre-back to replace the injured Levi Colwill. England international Colwill is set to miss most of the new season after suffering an ACL injury in training. Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah are poised to start in central defence against Crystal Palace in the Premier League opener on Sunday.

Enzo Maresca has expressed his desire for one more signing at Chelsea this season, but he is aware that he may not get his way.