Antonio Conte has suggested he would like to lead Chelsea into the new Stamford Bridge.

The 48-year-old led Chelsea to the Premier League title in his first season in charge last term.

He signed improved terms to the initial three-year deal he agreed on taking up the job, but not an extension. His contract still expires in June 2019.

Conte insists he is committed to Chelsea, who have planning permission to rebuild Stamford Bridge but are yet to make a final decision whether to proceed.

If the Italian were to still be in charge it would defy Chelsea’s managerial turnover, which pre-dates Roman Abramovich’s 14-year ownership. Not since John Neal in 1981 to 1985 has a Blues boss enjoyed four calendar years in charge.

“I want to break this bad record. I must be positive,” Conte said. “When you start a job with a new club, I hope to stay in this club for many years.

“This could be a fantastic challenge for me and also for the club, to stay together and also to play with this team in a new stadium.

Antonio Conte insists that hard work is the key as the Blues prepare for Tottenham… More ???? https://t.co/7Qbd48fC5w pic.twitter.com/L4gO7ZCBzU — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 14, 2017

“Honestly, the new stadium will be great, but I love a lot Stamford Bridge, also to play in the stadium. I feel Stamford Bridge is like my house.”

If Chelsea do opt to rebuild Stamford Bridge they will probably need to temporarily relocate, with Wembley the most likely destination.

The national stadium is Tottenham’s temporary home this season and Spurs host the Blues in their first Premier League home game there on Sunday.

Tottenham have two wins in 10 games since Wembley reopened after a rebuild in 2007. Chelsea won the FA Cup semi-final between the teams in April.

Progress continues on the stadium development site as we remove the South Stand truss. #SpursNewStadium pic.twitter.com/gPncKrbbIS — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 19, 2017

Conte recognises the challenges of moving home, as he helped his former club Juventus transfer from the Stadio delle Alpi to their current home.

“For sure it’s not the same when you play not in your stadium. It’s different,” Conte added.

“But if you want to have another good step to improve the club, you must have this type of situation.”

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