Manchester City are nearing a financial agreement with Chelsea that would allow them to bring in Enzo Maresca as their next manager.

Chelsea are seeking compensation from City because they hold evidence that the Spanish coach spoke with Premier League rivals while still employed at Stamford Bridge last season.

Reports indicate Maresca told Chelsea about approaches from both City and Napoli during the turbulent period before his unexpected exit on New Year's Day, and that account has gone unchallenged.

The west London club feel they merit payment for the disruption caused by his exit, which contributed to a disappointing campaign that left them tenth in the league without European football, yet they maintain a positive relationship with City and expect a friendly resolution.

Chelsea spent eight million pounds to secure Maresca from Leicester two years earlier and later paid another substantial sum to Strasbourg for Liam Rosenior as his successor.

While Chelsea sources suggest they possess enough proof to notify the Premier League about an improper approach, they have chosen not to pursue that route and remain in talks with City.

They have also weighed a separate legal action against Maresca for contract breach, though that step would likely be abandoned once terms with City are settled.

A compensation package exceeding ten million pounds for Chelsea is viewed as the probable result, with discussions on specific terms still underway.

City begin pre-season training in the middle of next month because nineteen players are competing at the World Cup, giving both sides time to finalize matters, though Maresca is keen to begin his new role promptly.

Neither Chelsea nor City offered any comment.