ANTONIO CONTE is due to hold talks with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, with the Premier League champions optimistic that the Italian will extend his contract.

Claims emerged from Italy last week that Conte was considering his future regarding Chelsea’s transfer strategy and a desire to have greater power.

The Russian billionaire is willing to back Conte in this summer’s transfer window with an outlay that is set to exceed 200 million pounds (US$254 million), but will not change the club’s structure or strategy. Abramovich made an offer to make Conte the highest-paid manager in Chelsea’s history, at 9.6 million pounds a year, after last season’s Premier League title success.

As reported by Telegraph Sport, Conte will be fighting a losing battle if he tries to take full control at Stamford Bridge but there have since been positive conversations between the head coach and club officials.

Now Conte will speak to Abramovich regarding this summer and the future, when it is hoped that, barring any unreasonable demands from the 47-year-old, a contract extension will finally be agreed.

Conte is also likely to be reminded that a repeat of the text message he sent to Diego Costa to tell the striker he is no longer in his plans did not adhere to club protocol.

As part of any positive conclusion to discussions, Conte will have to accept that he is not the only voice at the club on transfers and that he will have to be patient while targets are pursued.

(SD-Agencies)