Roberto Di Matteo is set to be named Chelsea boss within the next 24 hours, according to reports.
Di Matteo, 42, took temporary charge at Stamford Bridge following the departure of Andre Villas-Boas in March.
However, the Italian went on to win the FA Cup and the coveted Champions League trophy during his time at the club, leaving chairman Roman Abramovich with little choice but to seriously consider appointing Di Matteo on a permanent basis.
Abramovich is thought to be holding out for former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola, who is taking a year-long sabbatical from management, and so only wants to give Di Matteo a 12-month contract.
Now it appears that the two parties have reached an agreement as Ambramovich looks to regain a foothold in the Premier League title race.
Di Matteo also enjoyed success as a player at Stamford Bridge, winning two FA Cups, a League Cup and a Cup Winners' Cup during his six years at the club.
Barney Corkhill
