Abramovich to run rule over Conte before sealing deal

London: Roman Abramovich will hold a final face-to-face meeting with Antonio Conte before signing off his appointment as Chelsea’s next permanent manager. Conte is close to agreeing a three-year deal to take over at Stamford Bridge when his contract as Italy’s head coach expires after the European Championships. However, former England manager Fabio Capello has warned the Italian that he will struggle in the Premier League if he does not fully grasp the language. Negotiations over his contract have so far been led by Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia but owner Abramovich is ready to meet with Conte in Monte Carlo to shake hands on an agreement. Conte ideally wants confirmation of the deal before Italy’s next game against Spain on March 24. It is understood he has been learning English ahead of his anticipated move and Capello believes it is vital for the 46-year-old to be able to communicate effectively with his new squad. Capello struggled to master English during his four years as the national manager and encountered even bigger communication -problems when he took over as head coach of Russia in 2012. Chelsea have seen first-hand how difficult it can be for players to operate, under a manager who cannot speak good English, in Luiz Felipe Scolari’s ill-fated six months in charge.