Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis admits he's considered Chelsea boss Antonio Conte as Maurizio Sarri's replacement.

Conte has been linked in a coach swap for Sarri.

De Laurentiis told Corriere della Sera, “I already spoke to Sarri about the contract and he asked me to wait. If he decides to stay, then I am happy, otherwise I'll take that into account and will ensure the clause is paid.

“We've been looking around since October, both in Italy and in Europe. We saw people in Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Russia and even Italy. If we wanted to continue the same system, Marco Giampaolo would be suitable.

“Simone Inzaghi, Giampaolo and Leonardo Semplici are all interesting options, it's about making the right choice.

“Antonio Conte would be a perfect colonel to ensure the rules are respected. He is a friend and lets nobody take a breather. We are not afraid of going forward, with or without Sarri."