Corriere dello Sport reported today that Chelsea owner Abramovich gathered his players at their Cobham training ground last weekend and told them: “I’ve signed Conte”.
Advertisement
The Telegraph is reporting that Roman Abramovich is to meet up with Antonio Conte in the next seven days to seal the deal for him to become the next manager of Chelsea.
Conte’s brother Daniele owns the One Apple restaurant in Monte Carlo, which could play host to the meeting between Abramovich and the 46-year-old.
As a result, Chelsea are pouncing on someone who will undoubtedly be hot managerial property. In recent weeks, Antonio Conte has vaulted into pole position in the race for the job, with his appointment now being taken for granted.
“I’m very hopeful”, said Terry. “I have been there 21 years and I will never give up until if finally happens. But, who knows? I’ve still got a lot to give, whether that’s here or somewhere else”.
Conte remains focused on the Italian national side for now although it has also been suggested he has given the club’s hierarchy a list of players he would like to bring in.
Conte, who won three consecutive Serie A titles as Juventus coach, is set to join Stamford Bridge following Italy’s Euro 2016 campaign.
Loftus-Cheek this week signed a new five-year contract that could earn him more than pounds 60,000 and the club have promised the 20-year-old more first-team opportunities.
Chelsea are more desperate than ever not to waste their young talent or see their graduates excel elsewhere, following the success of Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku away from the club.
Advertisement
Conte could have as much as £130million to spend on new players and defenders are sure to be high on his wanted list along with a new striker. The likes of Pogba, Leonardo Bonucci, Radio Nainggolan, Miralem Pjanic and Gonzalo Higuain are on his transfer shortlist.
