Chelsea have been strongly linked with Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri, with reports claiming that the Italian could replace current Chelsea boss Antonio Conte at Stamford Bridge.

Sarri currently has a £7.1million release clause in his contract which is active under the end of May, and he has so far refused a deal to extend his contract and remove the clause.

The 59-year-old has had an incredible season with Napoli with his side currently second on the table and four points behind Juventus.

Rumours have it that Napoli are now bent on losing Sarri, and the Evening Standard also report that, as well as losing their manager, Napoli fear that a number of key players could follow Sarri to his next club too.

Chelsea have long-standing interest in defender Kalidou Koulibaly, and the powerful centre-back is one of the three players Napoli fear could depart along with Sarri, as well as Elseid Hysaj and Jorginho.