Italy coach Antonio Conte is focusing on the task of leading the Azzurri to glory at Euro 2016 despite widespread speculation that he is set to be confirmed as Chelsea's next manager, Italian football federation (FIGC) president Carlo Tavecchio insists.
Conte's representatives have been in talks with Chelsea over taking charge of the Blues once Guus Hiddink's interim spell ends in the summer, according to ESPN FC sources.
Reports last week claimed that the 46-year-old is close to signing a contract to take over at Stamford Bridge after positive talks between his representatives and Chelsea officials in London, while former England manager Fabio Capello claims that Conte is already preparing himself for life at Chelsea.
La Gazzetta Dello Sport reported on Monday that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich will approve the appointment after meeting Conte personally in Monte Carlo in the coming days but Tavecchio would not be drawn on the speculation surrounding his coach's future beyond the summer.
"For me, at the moment, Conte is with the national team and is working with desire, skill and sacrifice," Tavecchio said. "We are taking the first steps to do well in the European Championship, but beyond that, only time will tell."
Conte led Italy to qualify for this summer's European Championship in France as unbeaten winners of Group H but looks set for a return to club management, where he forged his reputation by winning three consecutive Serie A titles with Juventus.