Antonio Conte's future at Chelsea is filled with uncertainty, but according to a recent report, the 2017/18 FA Cup winners are looking at two surprise candidates to succeed the Italian.
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The London club had reportedly been hoping to appoint former Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri as their new manager in the coming weeks, but that move has seemingly been shelved after they refused to pay his £7 million (R118 million) release clause.
Former France and Paris Saint-Germain coach Laurent Blanc has now emerged as the Blues' preferred candidate, with former Chelsea boss Avram Grant being their second choice, according to the Daily Mail.
Blanc has been out of a job for two seasons now, and is said to be keen to return to management if the right offer comes his way in the next couple of months.
The Frenchman, who has managed PSG and Bordeaux in the past, has an impressive CV, having won four Ligue 1 titles, four Coupe de la Ligues, five Trophees des Champions and two Coupe de France cups.
Grant, on the other hand, is seemingly linked with the Stamford Bridge club as a back-up option as he reportedly remains a crucial member of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich's friendship circle.
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The Israeli, who replaced Jose Mourinho after the Portuguese's first stint at Stamford Bridge, guided the Blues to the 2008 UEFA Champions League final, which they lost on penalties to Manchester United.
Should Conte leave, who would you like to see manage the English club next? Have your say in the comments section below.