Napoli set to offer manager Maurizio Sarri new improved contract amid growing interest from Chelsea

Napoli are reportedly set to hold talks with manager Maurizio Sarri next week over a new contract amid growing speculation Chelsea are interested in appointing him.

Sportsmail revealed earlier this week Chelsea have already drawn up a shortlist with Antonio Conte increasingly likely to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

Massimiliano Allegri of Juventus, Luis Enrique, who quit as Barcelona boss last year, and Sarri are the leading contenders to replace him.

According to Football Italia, Napoli have acted quickly in order to protect their manager by pencilling in a meeting with Sarri where they will propose a new deal and remove his release clause.

Sarri has earned many plaudits this season for his style of management and recently earned high praise from Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.

Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis acknowledged there is a danger of losing Sarri - who has led them to the top of the Serie A table this season - and is ready to make him an improved offer.

'We have set a meeting for February 9. Obviously, I can't force Sarri to stay, but if he were to leave, he'd be missing out on a series of projects,' he said.

'We're preparing Casa Napoli, our new training centre, maybe even a new stadium. In any case, I doubt Maurizio is passing through, as he's a very ethical man.

'There is a release clause worth €8m, though I'd gladly remove it.'