Chelsea not Sarri about bid for boss

NAPOLI coach Maurizio Sarri has been sounded out about replacing Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, who is set to leave at the end of the season. Highly-rated Sarri (left) has emerged as a serious contender after inspiring Napoli to challenge the dominance of Juventus in Serie A. Sarri, 59, is understood to have a £7million release clause, valid until

May 31, in his Napoli contract. Talks over a new deal with the club have stalled, with Sarri said to be unwilling to make any decisions until after his side play leaders Juve in a title decider on April 22.

Napoli are second in Serie A, four points behind with just two defeats in their last 12 matches.

Ex-Barcelona coach Luis Enrique, winner of two La Liga titles and the Champions League, has been favourite to take over at Stamford Bridge.

Conte fell out with his Chelsea bosses after consistently criticising the club’s transfer policy.

The Blues now sit fifth in the table, 10 points behind fourth-placed Spurs, and are facing up to another season out of the Champions League.

As a result, Eden Hazard is unlikely to sign a new deal with just two years left on his current contract.

Keeper Thibaut Courtois has just a year left on his contract and there are now fears he could decide against extending.