Chelsea have spoken to Italy coach Antonio Conte’s representatives about the manager’s job at Stamford Bridge.
Conte, 46, wants to take over as Blues boss after this summer’s European Championships and reports in Italy claim he has all but clinched the job.
He has been in charge of the national team since 2014 and has also managed Juventus – where he made his name as a player – as well as Siena, Atalanta, Bari and Arezzo.
His contract expires this summer, while Guus Hiddink’s spell as interim manager at the Bridge finishes at the end of the season.
A number of managers are being considered by Chelsea, but Conte’s representatives believe their man is set to take over.
Conte led Juventus to three Serie A titles and Italy are unbeaten under him in 10 competitives matches.
This post was last modified on 27/02/2016