Chelsea identify Man City boss Manuel Pellegrini as ideal Jose Mourinho replacement – report

Chelsea are plotting a shock move to make Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini their new permanent manager at the end of the season, according to reports.

Mourinho, who was sacked by Roman Abramovich for the second time in his career, has shouldered the blame for Chelsea’s dismal defence of their Premier League title which sees the Blues narrowly above the relegation zone as Guus Hiddink takes temporary charge of the club.

Pellegrini meanwhile has had his Manchester City future cast in doubt after Pep Guardiola stated his intentions to leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season, developments which have seen heavy rumours linking him with Pellegrini’s replacement at City.

And, according to Spanish media outlet Marca, Chelsea will be looking to take advantage of the managerial merry-go-round in the summer and swoop for City’s Chilean boss.

- Metro