Jose Mourinho will see his power at Chelsea further diluted on July 1 when Avram Grant arrives from Portsmouth to be the club's new sporting director.

The Independent says Grant will be given wide-ranging powers - including involvement in coaching, signing players and their recruitment.

The appointment of the 51-year-old is part of a significant reduction in Mourinho's influence at Chelsea which was prompted by the row between manager and owner last season. The role Grant will take is remarkable. It effectively recognises him as a good coach, a good judge of player and a confidant to Roman Abramovich - something that will irk Mourinho.