Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has distanced himself from ongoing reports suggesting the club has opened contract talks with Moises Caicedo, despite the midfielder still having several years left on his current deal.

Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s final games of the season, Maresca appeared caught off guard when asked about Caicedo’s contract situation.

“Moi is doing well since day one, he is working very well and working very hard,” Maresca said.

The Italian coach went on to praise Caicedo’s professionalism and his influence on the rest of the squad: “The good thing about Moi is that he is a good example for the young players.”

However, when it came to the matter of a new deal for the Ecuadorian, Maresca was clear that it wasn’t a topic for discussion at this stage of the campaign. “I have no idea about his contract. It is not the time. The focus is to finish the season.”

Caicedo joined Chelsea two summers ago in a British-record transfer and signed a long-term deal that runs until 2031. Despite that, reports had recently emerged that the club was considering offering him improved terms as a reward for his consistent performances and growing importance in the squad.

For now, though, it’s clear that Maresca wants full focus on the pitch as Chelsea chase a strong finish to the season. Contract matters, it seems, can wait.