Chelsea’s Russian owner, Roman Abramovich, wants Tottenham coach, Mauricio Pochettino to replace Antonio Conte as the Blues manager.
Conte’s future at Stamford Bridge remains uncertain.
The Italian has fallen out with Chelsea’s hierarchy on several occasions over the club’s transfer policy, as well as the handling of players within the squad.
The 48-year-old has followed up his title-winning season with a dismal second campaign in which Chelsea finished outside of the Champions League places and beating Manchester United in the FA Cup final on Saturday may not be enough to spare him from being sacked.
The Sun, UK, reports that Abramovich has already identified Pochettino as Conte’s successor and the Spurs manager is aware of the interest.
Meanwhile, Conte had publicly insisted after Chelsea’s 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United on the final day of the Premier League season that he is ready to honour his contract, which still has a year left to run.
He said, “For me, this is important, not speculation around me. It’s not important. The most important thing is what the club thinks, not you or the speculation about me.
“I have a contract and the club know very well the situation. After Saturday, we go on vacation and then we will see next season.”
