Claudio Ranieri will quit Nantes if offered Italy job as he looks to reverse country’s fortunes
Former Leicester chief is among the candidates alongside Chelsea boss Antonio Conte and Carlo Ancelotti
CLAUDIO RANIERI has confirmed he will leave Nantes if offered the Italy job.
The former Leicester chief, 66, is one of the candidates for the vacant role alongside Antonio Conte.
Gian Piero Ventura was axed following Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup and Ranieri is keen to try and revive his country's fortunes.
He told Sky Sports Italia: "Any Italian coach would love to be in charge of the national team.
"I have a contract with Nantes for two years and I have not received any messages, so I can't say anything.
"But if I were to be contacted for the Italy job, I'd go to the Nantes president and ask to be released."
Rantes took over Nantes in June - four months after being sacked by Leicester as he failed to build on his incredible Premier League triumph.
The Ligue 1 outfit are fifth in the table, some way off the top four.
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Unemployed Carlo Ancelotti is another contender to lead his country but Conte is believed to be his country's top pick despite saying he does not want the job.
Chelsea's title defence has not gone well and the Blues boss has grown increasingly frustrated with his board.
Conte set his side up brilliantly against Barcelona last night as they were unlucky to draw 1-1 with Barcelona at Stamford Bridge.
Willian struck after hitting the post twice but Lionel Messi scored his first goal in nine matches with the Blues to level.