Chelsea Interested in Manuel Pellegrini to Replace Rafa Benitez

Chelsea are looking to replace Rafa Benitez this summer, and a number of managers have been linked to the would-be vacancy at Stamford Bridge. While Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has been highly linked to a return to London, it now seems that Malaga’s Manuel Pellegrini is high on Chelsea’s wish list.

The Daily Mail and The Telegraph are reporting that a meeting took place last Friday in Paris between Chelsea and one of Pellegrini’s close advisors to discuss the Malaga coach’s interest in the job at Stamford Bridge. The 59 year apparently has a £3.4 million buyout clause in his contract, which is a figure that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich could certainly meet.

Pellegrini has impressed greatly this season with financially-troubled Malaga, capped off by a Champions League quarterfinal berth in the club’s first ever appearance in the competition. The Chilean manager’s contract is set to expire in 2014, and with Malaga’s European ban set to begin next season, Pellegrini may be tempted by the chance at another season in the Champions League with Chelsea.

However, the manager has openly stated his desire to remain with Malaga at least until the end of his current contract, and has admitted that it will be up to the Spanish club whether or not they keep their prized asset. Pellegrini was quoted as saying:

“I would like to finish my contract here and, when my career ends, to stay here and live in Malaga. I have an invaluable empathy with the people here, but for me the sporting project is important - and that has become distorted over time. My future is going to depend more on what Malaga do than on external offers.”

The 59 year old Chilean, who has only coached in Spanish speaking countries, is said to speak nearly-fluent English and is known for getting the most out of every one of his players. He is also a much cheaper option than the likes of Jose Mourinho, and is thought to only command £5 million per season.

While many still believe that Mourinho will be the man in charge at Stamford Bridge next season, it has been rumored that Abramovich may be turned-off by the Real Madrid managers wage demands. Mourinho looks set to leave Madrid this summer, and with PSG one of the other clubs interested in his services, the “Special One” may prefer a move to France where his demands will be met.

Who would Chelsea supporters like to see managing the side next season? Is the “Special One” also the “Chosen One”, or would Pellegrini be a better fit? Sound off in the comments