Chelsea boss Antonio Conte inching towards exit door as his compatriot ‘warms up’

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte. [Photo: Courtesy]

Napoli boss Maurizio Sarri has taken a huge step towards taking over at Chelsea.

Sarri, 59, has indicated his desire to leave the Serie A club this summer to pave the way for him to take charge at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have got Sarri at the top of their managerial shortlist as the look to appoint a successor for Antonio Conte who seems certain to leave at the end of the season.

Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri. [Photo: Courtesy]

Napoli are now believed to be looking for a successor for Sarri as they expect him to go - and the strong belief in Italy is that he will get the Chelsea job.

Conte’s future is in serious doubt after an unhappy second season as they look in danger of missing out on the top four and, despite reaching the semi final, the FA Cup will not be enough.

The only surprise will be that Chelsea are looking at another Italian boss after a string of fall outs with Chelsea, largely over transfers.

But Juventus boss Max Allegri and former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique have also been on their hit list.

Mirror Sport revealed last week that Chelsea have stepped up their interest in Sarri and he is clearly keen on the chance to move to the Premier League.