Chelsea Rumours: Luis Enrique In The Frame To Replace Antonio Conte

Ex-Barca boss is also willing to cut his initial wage demands.

By Jamie Kennedy /

Lalo R. Villar/AP/Press Association Images

Yahoo! Sport are reporting that former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique has been in touch with Chelsea about becoming the London side's new head coach, replacing the seemingly outgoing Antonio Conte.

Advertisement

Conte is still Chelsea's manager as things stand, but there's a decision to be made on his future; as the Italian still has a year left on his current deal, the board would have to agree on a severance package with him, and Yahoo claim Conte wants a full year's salary (said to be in the region of €6.5 million after tax) to leave.

Only then would the door be open for a replacement, and it's understood that Enrique is interested.

Advertisement

The 48-year old's CV is impressive. A two-time La Liga winner as Barcelona coach from 2014-17, Enrique also bagged three Copa del Ray titles, a Spanish Super Cup, two Champions League medals, the 2015 UEFA Super Cup and a FIFA Club World Cup that same year.

A potential stumbling block in any proposed contract is the Spaniard's financial demands. Even so, Yahoo say Enrique is willing to play ball with Chelsea and lower his initial requirements.

Advertisement