Abramovich Wants Barca Boss Guardiola as Next Chelsea Manager - Report

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich's counsels have started negotiations with the representatives of Pep Guardiola regarding the chances of the Barcelona boss becoming the London club's manager next season, according to a report in The Telegraph.

The 41-year-old has been on a one-year rolling contract at Barcelona and his current deal expires at the end of June. The Spaniard is reportedly not happy with the Barca administration and the burden of expectations on him every season and might choose to leave.

Guardiola, who is Abramovich's main target, is also considering taking a one-year break from managing clubs, though there is pressure on him - from both Barca players and fans - to sign a new deal at the Catalan club.

Meanwhiler, France national team coach Laurent Blanc has also been shortlisted as a potential candidate to succeed Andre Villas-Boas at Chelsea but the Blues have not made any moves for the former Manchester United player so far.