Chelsea are reportedly moving to prise set-piece specialist Austin MacPhee away from Aston Villa, according to BBC News, though the Blues will have to fend off rival interest from elsewhere in the Premier League and the Saudi Pro League.
MacPhee has built a strong reputation for his work on dead-ball routines during his time with Villa, making him a wanted man among clubs looking to sharpen their attacking and defensive set-piece organisation. His profile has grown to the point where he's now seen as one of the most sought-after specialist coaches in the English game.
While talks between Chelsea and MacPhee are said to be underway, nothing is confirmed, and BBC News stresses that other suitors from the Premier League and Saudi Arabia are also circling. Villa, for their part, would face the task of replacing a key figure behind the scenes should he depart.
No timeline for a decision has been reported, and Chelsea's interest remains at the discussion stage for now.