Specific Managerial Names Touted

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Names Mentioned on messageboards but not previously in the papers.

The Times - Antonio Conte and Franco Baresi on QPR’s list - Gary Jacob

Queens Park Rangers have lined up Antonio Conte and Franco Baresi as candidates to become their next manager after John Gregory was dismissed. The former Italy internationals have been sounded out about the post by representatives of Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, the Formula One businessman, who will complete their takeover next month.

Gregory had dinner with the new owners two weeks ago, when he was assured of his position and offered funds for new players. However, Briatore told Gianni Paladini, the QPR chairman, to dismiss Gregory after the 5-1 defeat away to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. Paladini did so at about 10.30pm and appointed Mick Harford, the first team coach, as caretaker manager.

Many of the consortium behind the takeover of the Championship side have links to Juventus. Franco Ceravolo, a former scout at the Italian club, is expected to be confirmed as sporting director, while Conte played in midfield for Juventus for 12 years from 1992. He has since been coach of Arezzo in Serie B in Italy. Baresi, the former defender, has been a youth team coach at AC Milan since he retired from playing for the club.

Didier Deschamps has also been mentioned as a possible manager, but Gianluca Vialli, the former Chelsea manager, has said that he is not interested.