Chelsea approach Rafael Benitez to replace Villas-Boas - report

Chelsea have approached Rafael Benitez in order to gauge his interest in taking over from Andre Villas-Boas at Stamford Bridge, according to The Times.

It is reported that Roman Abramovich could be forced to act due to a lack of support for Villas-Boas in the Blues' dressing room, despite the Portuguese manager's insistence that he has the backing of the Russian owner.

The former Porto boss admitted that senior squad members Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole were disappointed not to be included in Chelsea's starting XI against Napoli in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Abramovich's advisors have reportedly indicated to the tycoon that the damage done to Villas-Boas' authority among the players is irreversible.

It is suggested that Benitez could join the club on a deal until the end of the season, with his long-term future dependent on securing qualification for next season's Champions League. Fabio Capello is also reportedly a candidate.

Benitez has been out of work since leaving Inter Milan after a brief spell at San Siro ended in December 2010.

He previously went head-to-head with the Blues in three Champions League semi-finals, winning twice.