Chelsea are in talks with the representatives of Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini.The Sun says 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.
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.
