Maurizio Sarri has cleared a path to Chelsea by completing his exit from the Napoli dugout.
Former Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti has been appointed to replace him at the Stadio San Paolo in Naples leaving Sarri to move on to a fresh challenge.
Chelsea continue to deliberate on the future of Antonio Conte after winning the FA Cup.
The hierarchy at Stamford Bridge have tired of Conte’s public outbursts about the transfer policy, fierce mood swings at the training ground and a deteriorating relationship with his players.
But owner Roman Abramovich, who is unable to enter the UK due to delays in the process of his visa renewal, has been reluctant to pay-off the coach and his eight Italian staff in full because it would cost more than £9million.
Sarri’s sudden availability, however, could force the issue.
The 59-year-old, who led Napoli to a runners-up place in the Serie A this year playing attractive and exciting football, wants the Chelsea job if it becomes available.
He has also been linked with a move to Zenit St Petersburg, in Russia.
‘I’d like to thank Maurizio Sarri for his valuable contribution to the Napoli cause,’ said Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis, on Wednesday, on Twitter.
‘He brought joy and prestige to Naples and Napoli fans all over the world with an entertaining brand of football that drew praise from all quarters. Well done, Maurizio.’
Napoli claimed Sarri had not been sacked and remained tied to his contract despite the appointment of Ancelotti. There is a clause enabling him to leave for £7m before the end of May but when that date passes he will be able to move for free.
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