Chelsea lining up surprise name to replace Sarri next season

Maurizio Sarri remains under pressure at Chelsea and could be replaced by Watford manager Javi Gracia, whose tenure in charge of the Hornets has impressed Stamford Bridges bosses. Sarri appeared to ease the pressure surrounding his future thanks to a string of improved results and the introduction of more youth players into his starting XI. However, defeat against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday saw the side’s top-four hopes take a blow and he could be back in the firing line if Chelsea fails to qualify for the Champions League.

The Blues will drop out of the top four if Arsenal beat Watford on Monday night, though that is not the only reason Chelsea bosses will be watching the game with interest. According to the Daily Record, Chelsea’s decision-makers have been hugely impressed by the job Gracia has done at Vicarage Road, with the team on course for a seventh-place finish and already in the final of the FA Cup.

As well as results on the pitch, Chelsea are particularly drawn to Gracia’s calm and understated manner off it – a marked contrast from some of the west Londoners’ recent managers. The Spaniard is also happy to be a head coach and they do not believe he will be as demanding in the transfer market as Sarri, who made requests to sign a number of high-level players both in the summer and winter.

Gracia is one of three names on Chelsea’s shortlist, with Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo and former Chelsea captain – now Derby County manager – Frank Lampard also in contention.

Watford are believed to be open to letting Gracia leave if they receive a massive compensation fee, while Sarri is unfazed by the prospect of leaving Stamford Bridge after just one year and has reportedly been encouraging interest from Serie A side Roma.