Chelsea in talks over Emma Hayes replacement with Casey Stoney among favourites | OneFootball

Casey Stoney and Laura Harvey are the leading candidates to replace Chelsea manager Emma Hayes as the club begin to sound out candidates for the job.

Leaning towards a female candidate, the Blues have begun the interview process, with several overseas names also considered.

Stoney, a former player under Hayes, is part of the process. However, after leaving Manchester United for San Diego Wave in 2021, she is still considering whether to return to the UK.

Laura Harvey, a former Arsenal manager now at Seattle Reign, was a club guest at Stamford Bridge for the Champions League match against Hacken in December.

Male candidates, such as former Barcelona boss Lluis Cortes, were also asked to apply earlier in the process. However, his application was not taken further, as senior players are believed to prefer a female coach.

Aston Villa manager Carla Ward and Hayes's former assistant Tanya Oxtonby have also been considered.