Former Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti would reportedly consider a second stint at Chelsea if the club were to offer him a permanent contract.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho is under pressure following a disastrous start to their Premier League title defence, and the Italian is said to be one of several potential replacements.
Ancelotti would turn down the chance to manage the club on an interim basis until the end of the season, but entertain the idea of entering a full-time contract, according to The Mirror.
The 56-year-old guided Chelsea to a league and cup double in 2009-10, only to be sacked one year later.
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone and Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola have also been tipped as potential successors to Mourinho.