Speculation over Conte’s future continues
The Times say Antonio Conte wants a five-year deal to return as Italy boss, making it less likely he will take over.
Conte, widely tipped to leave Chelsea at the end of the season, has been linked with a number of jobs – including the one he left to take over at Stamford Bridge in 2016.
However, The Times say the Italian Football Federation is unwilling to meet his reported demands.
There continues to be much speculation over the future of Conte and who might replace him as Chelsea manager.
The Mirror recently claimed Conte’s departure has been delayed by wrangling over a pay-off.
Conte’s contract at Stamford Bridge runs until 2019 and he is said to be entitled to a £10m payment if he is sacked this summer.
Luis Enrique is among those to have been touted as a replacement for Conte – but he is now being backed to succeed Arsene Wenger at Arsenal.
The Times recently reported that Chelsea have cooled their supposed interest in the former Barcelona boss because of concerns over his wage demands and his temperament.
The Times suggested this means “a path is clearing” for Arsenal to appoint Enrique when Wenger departs at the end of the season.