Ten Cate confirms Chelsea talks

The Dutchman confirmed that his club are in talks with Chelsea for a possible move to London to fill the Director of Football spot that was left by Avram Grant when he took over Jose Mourinho’s position. Earlier this week, Grant admitted that Henk is on the list of prospects to fill his staff.

Henk was once reported to be already satisfied being in Holland but has also admitted a move is possible if Chelsea and Ajax reach a deal.

“There has to be a solution between Ajax and Chelsea,” he said.

“If that doesn’t happen I will stay with Ajax and otherwise there is a chance I will leave.”

Grant said he is in charge of team affairs and if there is any addition to it, that person is going to be working under him. In an interview, he said:

“It is not a secret. I have made it clear in the past that we have lost four coaches – one assistant coach, one fitness coach, one goalkeeping coach and one scout.

“We are looking for replacements for them. We have checked many possibilities and I have checked personally. It will be my decision – I am in charge of my staff and my players.

“I have worked all my life with two assistants even in the Israel national team and everything. Any of them can make an opinion but the final decision is mine, I am in charge.

“I need to pick the people who are good for my way – for the new way of Chelsea. But I like to hear the opinions of my past.

“Two weeks ago Steve Clarke was not in charge of the training at Chelsea. But he has done the job very well on the pitch and that is what I am looking for.

“I need to work with these people but I want my two assistants to be top of the line – one British one I have is top of the line and we want the European coach to be one of the best.

“I have had a meeting with people in the last two weeks and Henk had a good record as assistant at Barcelona (alongside fellow Dutchman Frank Rijkaard).

“He is a nice person and when I am looking for an assistant, they would be from the top of the line because they need to work under me and understand the mode of football and the system of playing. I cannot say anything yet about Henk as it is not finished.”

A statement about Henk is expected to be made Monday.