Gianfranzo Zola could be heading back to Chelsea this summer regardless of whether or not Maurizio Sarri becomes the club’s new manager, says the Italian’s agent.
Amid much talk of change at Stamford Bridge, Antonio Conte is still to be relieved of his duties.
With the Premier League title winner still at the helm and little progress having been made in pursuit of Sarri, who remains tied to a contract at Napoli despite having been replaced, the Blues find themselves in coaching limbo.
They may, however, decide to bring an iconic figure back to west London, with Zola’s representative claiming that a position with Chelsea is not tied to Sarri arriving alongside him.
Fulvio Marrucco told Radio Kiss Kiss: “Sarri to Chelsea? I can only answer for Zola: I don’t know if Sarri will be the new Blues coach.
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“The first step is the possible sacking of Conte. After that, Chelsea will have to reach an agreement with Napoli and then Sarri.
“I’ve never met the Blues, but the idea of Zola going there doesn’t run parallel to Sarri’s arrival in London.
“Zola’s a legend there. We must clarify what the role of my client will be.”
Zola took in 311 games for Chelsea during a distinguished playing career.
Having joined the club in 1996, he departed seven years later having netted 80 goals and tasted two FA Cup wins, a Cup Winners’ Cup triumph and a UEFA Super Cup success.
