Bielsa on AVB replacement shortlist

Athletico Bilbao manager Marcelo Bielsa is a surprise contender to replace Andre Villas-Boas, should the Portuguese boss be usurped from his role at Chelsea, according to The Mirror.

The 34-year-old has been under pressure this term following The Blues' inability to keep pace with the Manchester pair in the Premier League title race.

Furthermore, the club's attempts to qualify for the Champions League have also suffered problems.

The club are currently level on points with fourth placed Arsenal, however have shown signs of cracking on regular occasions this season.

Bielsa has taken Bilbao to the Copa del Rey final this season, where they'll face Barcelona, while they sit fourth in the La Liga table, as they continue to close in on a Champions League spot.

Both Barcelona and Real Madrid have been tipped to make a move for Bielsa as their new boss, should the respective departures of Pepe Guardiola and Jose Mourinho take place this summer.

Chelsea have been linked with a host of names to potentially take over from Villas-Boas, should he be sacked as the boss at Stamford Bridge, with Rafa Benitez reported to be a leading contender.