Rumours strongly claim that Antonio Conte is set to depart Stamford Bridge after Chelsea offered only a limp defence of their Premier League title and failed to finish in the top four. Although the Italian won the FA Cup, after beating Manchester United 1-0 in the final on Saturday, he has a strained relationship with both the board and the squad.

Maurizio Sarri, another Italian has been linked with the Chelsea job, and now the Italian has been axed as Napoli boss, prompting more rumours that he could be on his way to Chelsea.

And now Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has confirmed his departure from the club by issuing a farewell message.

Aurelio De Laurentiis has wished the 59-year-old well in his future endeavours.

He tweeted: “I’d like to thank Maurizio Sarri for his valuable contribution to the Napoli cause.

“He brought joy and prestige to Naples and Napoli fans all over the world with an entertaining brand of football that drew praise from all quarters. Well done, Maurizio. Aurelio De Laurentiis.”