Chelsea want Conte as next manager

Italy boss Antonio Conte has emerged as the favourite to take over the reigns at Stamford Bridge, La Gazzetta dello Sport has claimed.

Dutch manager Guus Hiddink is highly unlikely to remain beyond the summer and the Blues officials are actively searching for a long-term solution.

And while the likes of Max Allegri and Diego Simeone are also on their radar, Antonio Conte has become the front-runner for the coveted post.

Having spent his entire coaching career so far in Italy, the 46-year-old feels ready to embark on a new challenge and test his skills in English Premier League.

Antonio Conte is reportedly close to accepting an offer from Stamford Bridge and he will probably move to England after leading Italy at the Euro 2016.

The Azzurri have big ambitions ahead of the tournament finals in France and they can be backed at 2/1 to win the opening fixture against Belgium.