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COLE PALMER is reportedly set for a shock change of position.
The England ace, 22, enjoyed a stellar debut season at Stamford Bridge following his £40million switch from Manchester City.
Palmer scored 27 goals and bagged 15 assists before starring for his country at Euro 2024.
The Treble winner played mainly as a right-winger under former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino.
And he occasionally got the freedom of the pitch by operating as a No10.
However, the Athletic claims Palmer is set for a new permanent role through the middle under new boss Enzo Maresca.
The Italian is attempting to implement a new style of football in West London.
It involves a heavy focus on passing out from the back.
And players are encouraged to drift into different areas to create an ultra-attacking high block.
It’s reckoned that Palmer could now operate as one of Maresca’s two No8s.
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They are both required to push forward as supporting strikers when in control of ball.
And it means Maresca can opt for his preferred choice of a super-pacey winger on the flank.
The report adds that he is still hoping to sign another wide-man after Chelsea failed to poach Michael Olise from Crystal Palace.
The Blues currently boast Noni Madueke, Raheem Sterling and Mykhailo Mudryk in their squad.
But a superstar winger could elevate them to the next level.
Chelsea are thought to be huge fans of Spain and Athletic Bilbao ace Nico Williams.
While Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi is also on their radar.
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