Italy boss Antonio Conte has reportedly agreed in principle to become Chelsea's new manager in the summer.
The 46-year-old was touted as an early candidate for the role, alongside Massimiliano Allegri and Diego Simeone, shortly after Jose Mourinho was sacked in December.
Guus Hiddink was swiftly installed as interim manager, but it was made clear that the Dutchman would leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.
Conte has overseen the Italian national team since 2014, but he is expected to leave his post after this summer's European Championships in France.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, a deal has been agreed in principle between Chelsea and Conte, who has never coached in England before.
The Italian has previously managed Arezzo, Bari, Atalanta, Siena and Juventus, where he won three Serie A titles during a three-year spell.
