By Geo Craig
Antonio Conte has ‘parted company’ with Chelsea FC, with the club releasing an official statement today.
The announcement comes after months of speculation around the Italian’s future, with his dismissal widely expected to come well in advance of the start of their pre-season preparations.
Reports claim that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was holding off for another club to come in for Conte, to avoid paying the hefty £9 million compensation to terminate the Italian’s contract a year early.
Maurizio Sarri is the overwhelming favourite to take over at The Bridge, with an announcement imminent.
Napoli midfielder Jorginho is also close to agreeing a deal to follow his former manager – with the Chelsea hierarchy keen to get their transfer plans moving.