Full speed ahead: Conte to sign with Chelsea in next 10 days after 'very positive' negotiations

Thanks to the vagaries of the rumor mill, we can never be too sure something is actually happening until it is officially confirmed, but by all appearances, Chelsea's next manager will be Antonio Conte.

The 46-year-old Italian's representatives have supposedly been in talks with Chelsea all day Thursday, following reports earlier this week that an deal "in principle" has already been agreed.  Most rumors agree that Chelsea are looking to offer a three-year contract at slightly lower wages than what Jose Mourinho had been getting paid.  Sounds reasonable.  Conte's entourage apparently agree.

#Conte al @ChelseaFC, avanti tutta. Contratto di 3 anni, molto positivi i contatti di oggi tra il club e il suo entourage @SkySport

— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) February 25, 2016

Di Marzio's full report goes on to claim that Conte's official signature is expected "within 10 days" though that doesn't necessarily mean that Chelsea will announce him right away.  Regardless, "barring sensational surprises, Conte will be the new coach of the Blues".

BOOM.