Speculation continues over Chelsea manager’s job

Stories in Thursday’s newspapers involving Chelsea…

There continues to be speculation over the Chelsea manager’s job amid reports that Maurizio Sarri is set to leave for Juventus.

Blues legend Frank Lampard is among those being touted as a possible replacement for Sarri, who is expected to take over at Juve in the coming days.

But the Daily Mail say the Turin club are looking to avoid paying compensation to Chelsea for Sarri, who has two years remaining on his contract at Stamford Bridge.

The Mail say Chelsea are prepared to dig in and refuse to release Sarri unless their compensation demands are met.

The Mail also say Chelsea will not take up the option to buy Mateo Kovacic from Real Madrid.

Midfielder Kovacic, who spent last season on loan at the Bridge, has been tipped to return to his former club Inter Milan.

Meanwhile, Emerson Palmieri says he is happy at Chelsea despite reports that Sarri could take the left-back with him to Juventus, the Daily Star reports.

“I have a contract with Chelsea where I am happy,” Emerson is quoted as saying.