Chelsea in Manuel talks

CHELSEA have opened talks with Manuel Pellegrini as they draw up a shortlist to replace interim boss Rafa Benitez.

Reports in Spain insist that representatives of Malaga’s Chilean coach have already held preliminary negotiations with the Blues.
Chelsea officials refused to comment last night following their Premier League victory at Fulham. But there is no doubt Pellegrini — regarded as one the best coaches in Europe — has the pedigree required for Stamford Bridge.
The 59-year-old former Real Madrid coach is in talks with Malaga over his current deal which has only a year left.
And yesterday his agent Jesus Martinez revealed he has a £3.5million release clause in his contract.
Martinez said: “If we have contacts with Roma, Chelsea and Manchester City, Manuel has a contract until June 2014 and a price of £3.5m.”
UEFA have banned Malaga from European competition next season following financial problems at the Spanish club.
That would make Chelsea an extremely attractive proposition for Pellegrini, although it is far from certain he will be the Blues’ No 1 choice.

Martinez added: “We must speak with Malaga about many things.”
Pellegrini was just two minutes from guiding the unfashionable La Liga side into this season’s Champions League semi-final.
Only two stoppage-time goals from Borussia Dortmund put paid to that.
Ironically, Dortmund’s coach Jurgen Klopp is another name being linked with the soon-to-be vacant hot seat at SW6.
And current Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has made it clear he would love to return.
It could be that Chelsea are talking to all three, and maybe other candidates, before making a final decision.