CHELSEA will hold a round of interviews this week as Todd Boehly looks to name a new sporting director.
The Blues held talks with RB Salzburg’s Christoph Freund last month.
Freund was at Stamford Bridge less than two weeks ago for the Austrian outfit’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea in the Champions League.
But the 45-year-old won’t be returning to West London on a permanent basis after he confirmed he’ll be staying with Salzburg.
He said: “When a club like Chelsea is interested in you, it is a big honour not just for you, but also for the work of the club in general.
“But I’ve come to the conclusion that FC Red Bull Salzburg is the best place for me.”
READ MORE CHELSEA NEWS
As a result co-owner Boehly – who was also looking at former Liverpool executive Michael Edwards – is still hoping to fill the role.
The American has been working as an interim sporting director since buying the club in the summer.
But according to The Athletic, a series of meetings are set to be held this week.
The Mirror have claimed that PSG’s Luis Campos, Sevilla’s Monchi, Atalanta’s Lee Congerton, Benfica’s Rui Pedro Braz and Leeds’ Victor Orta are all in the running for the job.
Most read in Football
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
Meanwhile, Chelsea geared up for their return to Champions League action with a crucial three points against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Graham Potter’s side are currently bottom of Group E after picking up just one point from their opening two fixtures.
But the Blues will join leaders AC Milan on four points if they beat the Italian giants on Wednesday.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk