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According to ESPN, Chelsea have added Javi Gracia to the shortlist of potential replacements for Maurizio Sarri.
The current Watford head coach is not really a new name in this regard however. He was linked with the potential vacancy back in April, rumored to be part of a three-man shortlist in case of an early exit for Sarri. The other two names then were the even more familiar Frank Lampard and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Nuno Espírito Santo. Since then, outgoing Juventus coach Max Allegri, former Chelsea assistant Steve Holland, and perpetually unemployed Laurent Blanc have been rumored as well. Even Jose Mourinho has been mentioned because third time is always the charm.
Meanwhile, Sarri is expected to be leaving officially in the next 24-48 hours after reported progress this weekend in his negotiations with Chelsea and Juventus.
Gracia has done good work at Watford, though he’s certainly not the most obvious nor the biggest name possibly available for the expected vacancy.