Paul Merson has encouraged Todd Boehly to end Frank Lampard's interim tenure and appoint a permanent manager immediately. The 44-year-old was named caretaker boss earlier last month while Chelsea continued their search for a new head coach, who would take over in the summer.
Julian Nagelsmann emerged as an early favourite to fill the vacancy at Stamford Bridge however, after talks broke down, the 35-year-old later distanced himself from contention. Luis Enrique was also heavily linked with the job in west London but, after reportedly making several demands, he too dropped out of the race.
Carlo Ancelotti was name-checked though he ruled himself out of proceedings – not once but twice. Since the day Graham Potter was sacked, Mauricio Pochettino has been an outsider until recently; according to The Times, the former Tottenham boss is now at the top of the Blues' shortlist.
