Joe Shields has become the latest appointment as part of Chelsea’s backroom reshuffle.
The club have confirmed his recruitment as co-director of recruitment and talent following the addition of Laurence Stewart as technical director and with Christopher Vivell’s move as sporting director set to be announced imminently.
Shields joins from Southampton, where he was head of recruitment, following similar roles at Manchester City, Crystal Palace and Fulham.
Saints midfielder Romeo Lavia, signed by Shields from City in the summer, is one of a number of targets interesting Chelsea in their search for a new midfielder.
Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly and co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali released a joint statement via the club website for the announcement.
It read: “Joe is another great addition to Chelsea, and we’re thrilled to have him on board. We have a clear plan and will adopt a modern and data-driven philosophy, focused on elite emerging talent.
“We’re assembling a deep and collaborative management team who are eager to build a continued sustained winner at Chelsea. Joe has a great track record and understanding of the game and emerging talent. We know we have another strong leader and a team player who will help us continue to build our world-class football organisation.”
