Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has reportedly narrowed his managerial search down to a few names, including Italian duo Antonio Conte and Massimiliano Allegri.
The Premier League champions opted to sack Jose Mourinho earlier this month, and have placed Guus Hiddink in temporary charge until the end of the season as they continue their search for a long-term solution.
While the Blues are currently sat just two points above the relegation zone, it remains to be seen whether or not they are able to qualify for the Champions League next season which in turn could be a significant factor in their bid to attract the top names.
Nevertheless, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Diego Simeone, Jorge Sampaoli and Manuel Pellegrini are all involved in the discussion, but Conte and Allegri are seemingly near the top of the list.
Conte will lead Italy to Euro 2016 next summer, but the former Juventus coach will see his contract expire at the end of the tournament with no suggestion that he is set to imminently sign a new deal.
Meanwhile, Allegri has turned Juve’s season around after a disastrous start and they will go in search of yet another Serie A title this season which could end up determining his future.
It opens up a fascinating race for the hotseat at Stamford Bridge, with the successor to Mourinho tasked with ensuring that the champions a year ago return to their usual high levels for the long term future.