Chelsea are ready to step up their plans to make a new manager's appointment.

The Sun says Chelsea plan to interview Frank Rijkaard and Roberto Mancini next week.

The Blues have not yet spoken directly to either coach - but they are the front-runners after Carlo Ancelotti announced he is staying at AC Milan.

Chelsea officials decided on a 'cooling off period' after Ancelotti's snub.

With Euro 2008 kicking off tomorrow, they hope to hold talks with the pair without the eyes of the football world on them.