Cesc Fabregas has a "long-term project" at Como, and knows he is building "something exciting and unique" at the club, says The Athletic's Serie A writer James Horncastle.

Having played for Chelsea between June 2014 and January 2019, the former central midfielder is an obvious name in the mix of prospective candidates to become the Blues' next head coach.

"Cesc Fabregas would like to work in the Premier League one day," Horncastle told BBC Radio 5 Live's Euro Leagues podcast. "But he also appreciates that he is on to something exciting and unique right now.

"He has a stake in Como, so he is not only emotionally invested but he is also financially invested in the club.

"Como have come a long way very quickly, partly because of the investment made by the owners and partly because he has been able to show his talent there.

"I believe he has a long-term project at Como. He has the stability there that I don't think a Chelsea manager can count on at the minute - and I think that does actually matter to younger coaches.

"Chelsea have been through a whole roll call of Champions League winners, club builders and young coaches recently but they have all struggled because of the instability and confusion behind them.

"I would expect him to stay at Como this year, especially because they still have a shot at qualifying for the Champions League. While he is still able to achieve that, considering what the club means to him, I think it would make it very difficult for him to leave."