Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca speaks on combining Nicolas Jackson and 26-year-old star in Blues attack

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has talked about pairing Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku in the Blues' attack in the upcoming matches. At a recent press conference, Enzo Maresca was asked about recruiting Nkunku on the left wing and Jackson in the middle.

During the Blues' 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield last week, Christopher Nkunku was substituted in the second half as the left winger. Meanwhile, Nicolas Jackson continued playing as a centre forward.

Maresca was asked whether he would change Nkunku and Jackson's roles in the future or not. The Italian manager said (via journalist Sirayah Shiraz):

"I don't see Nico in the wide area sometimes it can happen for sure but I don't see his there and the reason is because Christo because we wanted to have two very attacking players in that moment. So we decided for Christo wide but also we could play with Cole wide and Christo inside but it was just there for that moment."

Nicolas Jackson has played nine matches for the Blues this season across competitions, bagging five goals and three assists. Meanwhile, Christopher Nkunku has made 13 appearances for Enzo Maresca's Chelsea, scoring eight goals.

Next up, the Blues will host Newcastle United at three Stamford Bridge on Sunday, October 27.

Chelsea and Liverpool linked with 19-year-old Ligue 1 defender: Reports

Enzo Maresca's Chelsea and Arne Slot's Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing FC Nantes defender Nathan Zeze, as per TBR Football. According to the report, the two teams have also sent their scouts to keep a close eye on the defender in his recent matches.

Liverpool are currently seeking a long-term replacement for Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk. As a result, they are linked with several young central defenders, such as Vitor Reis and Nico Schlotterbeck. Apart from the two, French defender Nathan Zeze is reportedly also on their radar.

On the other hand, Chelsea have been heavily investing in young players and Zeze is currently 19. A move to the Premier League can see the Ligue 1 star becoming a global name. West Ham United are also interested in signing the Nantes defender and his transfer fee is expected to be around £17 million.

Zeze is a product of Nantes' academy and has made 22 senior appearances for the side across all competitions. This season, he has made six appearances in Ligue 1, racking up 540 minutes of game time.