Italy manager Antonio Conte refuses to comment on Chelsea speculation

Italy manager Antonio Conte has refused to comment on speculation that he will become Chelsea's new manager after Euro 2016 but admitted he is looking forward to returning to club football.

Conte's departure from the post that he has occupied since 2014 was confirmed last week, with the former Juventus manager set to succeed Guus Hiddink at Stamford Bridge in the summer having held a series of talks with the Premier League side over the last few weeks. The 46-year-old is expected to sign a three-year contract with Chelsea but ahead of Italy's friendlies against Spain and Germany this week, Conte appeared to suggest that he remains open to offers from other clubs.

Asked whether he will move to Chelsea after Euro 2016, he said: “For me it’s not a taboo subject, I can also speak about Italian clubs too. I will consider the choices on offer whether in Italy or abroad. The only thing I can confirm is that I’m not going to go to another national team as I miss club management.

“Everyone would like to work in the English Premier League ... it is normal for me too. I can talk about Chelsea, no problem; but now I’m focused on Italy. “

Earlier, Conte had been less forthcoming about his future plans but defended his decision to reveal he will be leaving the Azzurri post.

“I was asked to clarify my position before this summer’s European Championships as my contract was about to expire,” he said.

“My decision to leave was what I felt inside 100 per cent, and I explained this to the president who accepted my decision. I’m not prepared to speak about anything at the moment. I’m still the coach of the national team, an experience that has taught me how to utilise the little time I get to spend with the players. It’s been a fantastic and extraordinary experience, I’ve always envied people who have coached Italy. Now it’s up to me and I’m happy, we will continue as normal.”

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