With Jose Mourinho leaving Stamford bridge last month the search for a permanent successor was unsuccessful as Guss Hiddink took on the role as interim manager.
The Dutch football manager will leave his Chelsea post at the end of the season opening the door for Mark Hughes to possibly take over Sky Sports understand.
Stoke City are currently playing fantastic free flowing football at the Britannia Stadium and much of that is down to the management of the 52-year-old and his focus on young signings.
Hughes is currently in the midst of a long term contract with the North- West side with his deal not set to expire until 2019.
Chelsea to sign Hughes - twice?
The link to one of the biggest jobs in European football may come at a surprise to the former Wales International given his limted success at Manchester City and Queens Park Rangers.
The manager is now excelling at the Potters and is in the best period of his managerial career so far taking his side to the League Cup semi final before crashing out to Liverpool on Tuesday.
With names such as Pep Guardiola circulating the media regarding the hot seat the rumour of Hughes does seem to be a rather perplexing one.
The former Chelsea player was previously linked with the role back in 2007 before Mourinho's first spell but his candidicy for the position may now be greater considering his advancement in his experience.
Other Replacements
Looking past Mark Hughes other names constantly fire through forums and back pages daily but who are the most likely candidates for the job?
Pep Guardiola: The most obvious one- has a ring to it doesnt it? The current Bayern Munich manager has announced he is to leave his post at the end of the season but has given no hint as to where his next role may take him. With England still yet to be explored by the Spaniard it remains the clear option for the two time Champions League winner.
Diego Simeone: The fiery manager is also highly linked with the club, his powerful hands on style may intrige Roman Abramovich who looks to whip his players into shape after such a dissapointing season. Simeone has managed to keep his side Atletico Madrid challenging for the title this season despite losing key player Arda Turan to Catalan giants FC Barcelona, the 45-year-old has already won a La Liga title and may look to test himself in the Barclays Premier League.
Jorge Sampaoli: Currently the favourite in the betting shops the former Chile manager may prove to be a bold choice given his talents have already occupied a Copa America for the national team. After resigning this month he remains without a job which could open the door for a summer move to Stamford Bridge. At 55-years-old he certainly does not lack experience but given his scarcity of managing a major domestic side his appointment may be a wild one.