Report: Enrique's Chelsea hopes improve as Sarri holds Napoli talks

Luis Enrique's chances of being appointed Antonio Conte's successor at Chelsea have been handed a massive boost after Napoli boss and front-runner for the Blues gig Maurizio Sarri reportedly held talks with Partenopei president Aurelio De Laurentiis.

Sarri, who has been at the helm of the Serie A bridesmaid for three seasons, has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge. According to the Telegraph's Matt Law, that pilgrimage to England's top flight is now at risk, opening the door for former Barcelona manager Enrique.

Expected to now sign a new contract at the Stadio San Paolo, Enrique is understood to be one of the favourites to replace Conte, whose inevitable exit could be tethered to a £9-million payment. Conte will collect the entire amount if he is sacked and does not take another job in the last year of his current Chelsea contract.

Enrique, 48, has been out of work since stepping down last summer at Barcelona. With the Catalan giant, Enrique captured six domestic trophies and the 2014-15 Champions League.