Chelsea want Diego Simeone to replace Antonio Conte as head coach at the end of the season. The club have no plans to sack Conte but, with issues over Chelsea’s transfer policy and management structure, there is a widespread expectation at Stamford Bridge that both parties will come to a mutual agreement on his exit in the summer.

The Italian signed a new contract at Chelsea last summer but did not extend its length and will only have one year remaining after this campaign. Chelsea have therefore begun the process of looking at alternatives, with Simeone top of their shortlist.

The Atletico Madrid coach was considered before Conte was appointed two years ago but was unwilling to leave the Spanish capital before the club moved