Maurizio Sarri wants as many as FOUR of his former Napoli players to follow him to Chelsea.

The Blues are negotiating to release Sarri from his contract with the Italians and also to conclude a divorce settlement with outgoing boss Antonio Conte.

The Mirror says Chelsea are also having discussions with Sarri's agents over signings to rebuild a squad that won the FA Cup but missed out on the top four last season, a year on from being champions.

The Italian wants to bring FOUR of his Napoli players from last season with him — striker Dries Mertens (£27million), full-back Elseid Hysaj (£23m), winger Jose Maria Callejon (£21m) and defender Raul Albiol (£5m).

All have buyout clauses in their contracts.