Antonio Conte has reportedly turned down the chance to succeed Zinedine Zidane as Real Madrid manager to remain in charge of Chelsea.
The 48-year-old's future at Stamford Bridge remains in the balance following an underwhelming second campaign at the helm.
Despite lifting the FA Cup with victory over Manchester United last month, Chelsea chiefs were said to be eyeing up a replacement for the start of next season.
Due to a lack of realistic options, though, and Conte's reluctance to walk away from a big-money deal, the Italian may now see out the final 12 months of his existing contract.
According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the 48-year-old has even rejected an approach from Madrid due to concerns over the playing squad, as they are not ready to meet his demanding regime.
Los Blancos are also understood to have been knocked back by Mauricio Pochettino and Massimiliano Allegri since Zidane's surprise departure last week.
Daniel Lewis
