Conte still committed to Chelsea despite friction

Antonio Conte is understood to still be as committed as ever to Chelsea, despite widespread reports of a disagreement with the club over transfers.

The Italian proved to be perhaps the most popular head coach at Stamford Bridge since Jose Mourinho when, in his debut season, he led them to the Premier League title and the FA Cup final. But there have been doubts over the likelihood of him still being at the club when the new campaign begins, due to reported friction with his employers over the transfer market.

Conte is said to be frustrated with the lack of progress being made in making additions to his squad, particularly as he needs significant reinforcements now that the UEFA Champions League is back on the agenda. The champions are yet to make any additions, whilst John Terry, Asmir Begovic, Juan Cuadrado, Dominic Solanke and Christian Atsu have all left the club permanently.

And star striker Diego Costa is also expected to follow suit, after he made it known that Conte had sent him a text message informing him that he is surplus to requirements. The Spain international fell out with the Italian in the New Year when a proposed lucrative move to China fell through, and although they have since rebuilt bridges, it is clear friction remains between the pair.

But fears that the former Juventus boss could leave Stamford Bridge are wide of the mark, according to Sky Sports. It is believed that Conte has made technical director Michael Emenalo and director Marina Granovskaia aware of his transfer targets, and they will do all they can to make the required additions during the window, and certainly ahead of the FA Community Shield on 6 August.

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