Chelsea is actively pursuing Austin MacPhee, a renowned set-piece coach currently with Aston Villa. The club faces stiff competition from other Premier League teams and Saudi Pro League clubs, making this a highly contested signing.

Aston Villa is expected to receive compensation for MacPhee, as his contract includes a specified release clause. The 46-year-old Scottish coach has been pivotal at Villa Park, where he has served alongside the Portugal national team under Roberto Martinez for the past five years, a tenure that ended following the recent World Cup.

In the 2023-24 season, Aston Villa showcased their prowess by scoring more goals from set-pieces than any other team in Europe's top five leagues. They continued their strong performance in the subsequent season, finishing joint-top with Arsenal in the Premier League.

MacPhee is among several staff members expected to depart Villa Park this summer after contributing to the club's success, which included winning the Europa Conference League and qualifying for the Champions League under manager Unai Emery.

With new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso looking to reshape his coaching staff, the departure of former set-piece coach Bernardo Cueva, who transitioned from a touchline role to a more behind-the-scenes position, opens up a crucial spot for MacPhee in the backroom staff.