AC Milan are interested in appointing Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino as their next head coach, according to La Repubblica (via SempreMilan.com).

The Italian newspaper claim that the Argentine is being lined up as a potential replacement for Stefano Pioli, who is expected to be sacked at the end of the season.

Pochettino is one of five names that the Rossoneri are considering along with Porto’s Sergio Conceicao, Lille head coach Paulo Fonseca, Royal Antwerp manager Mark van Bommel and Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi.

Milan were originally keen on appointing Julen Lopetegui but they have had to reassess their options following a fan backlash. The Spaniard is now expected to take over at West Ham instead.

Whether Pochettino is interested in the job may depend on whether he survives at Stamford Bridge beyond the end of the campaign.

What has Pochettino said about his future?

The 52-year-old has confirmed that a decision will soon be made on whether he will remain in charge of the Blues:

“First, it is not my decision because if the owners are thinking to change – yes, for sure in one week [at the end of the season] we will know. That’s an instability with which we are comfortable working. We are going to be very strong in our efforts to help. It’s true that in the last few months like we were talking, that question has always come up. You need to kill the rumours; if that’s not true, if not, the rumour is there for a different strategy.”

Pochettino has since clarified his remarks, stating he is “happy” at Chelsea, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he is staying.

Chelsea have set targets

Reports suggest that European qualification is the bare minimum that the club are looking for from Pochettino. The Blues are currently sitting in 7th place which is a Europa Conference League spot.

However, they are level on points with Newcastle in 6th so, if Chelsea finish the season well, they could yet qualify for the Europa League.