Joao Felix moved to AC Milan on deadline day of the January transfer window, and the manager was asked if his side would have done better at the weekend if he was still at the club.
Maresca stated he didn’t miss Felix after the game, however the Portugal international has made a strong start to life at his new side.
AC Milan could offer Fikayo Tomori or Rafael Leao in swap deal for Joao Felix
He scored on his debut and played a key role in their hard-fought win at the weekend, with Milan likely to push to make that deal permanent at the end of the season.
However, the price tag Chelsea are likely to demand is going to cause them an issue, and could force them to offer players instead to try and get the deal done.
According to CalcioMercato, the Champions League side may offer either Fikayo Tomori or Rafael Leao in any deal for Felix, due to the Blues’ previous interest in the pair.
The centre-back has been a target of many Premier League sides in recent seasons, however his previous time at Stamford Bridge could make Chelsea the favourites should they pursue that avenue.
Leao meanwhile has been near the top of the list for the Blues for a dream winger signing ever since the new owners came into the club, and could be achievable based on the attacking strength Milan currently have.
Reece James a huge fan of Rafael Leao
Chelsea got an up close look at Leao in 2023, the last season they were in the Champions League.
While the Blues came out on top in both games at the time, Leao threatened in both matches up against club captain Reece James.
The England international previously named the winger as one of the top three players he has ever had to defend against, alongside some of the greats of the game.
He said: “3 hardest players I’ve ever played against are all left wingers! Vinicius Jr, Leao and Mane!”
With Mykhailo Mudryk unavailable and Jadon Sancho coming off the boil in recent weeks, a left winger is likely to be high on their agenda, and there would be few better to bring in than Leao.
