Sky: Gattuso the leading candidate for Italy job

Gattuso’s name had already emerged from earlier reports, which even mentioned Roberto Mancini, Daniele De Rossi and Fabio Cannavaro as contenders for the job.

According to Di Marzio, the FIGC is now mainly focusing on Gattuso, a 2006 Italy World Cup winner.

Claudio Ranieri, a former Roma coach and now advisor to the Giallorossi owners, was the primary option but rejected the FIGC proposal on Tuesday.

Stefano Pioli was also in line to replace Spalletti, but the ex-Milan coach has already reached a verbal agreement with Fiorentina, according to Football Italia sources.

La Nazionale secured a 2-0 win over Moldova on Tuesday, in Spalletti’s final game as their head coach.

How Ranieri explained Italy snub

“I thank President Gravina for the opportunity; it’s a great honour. However, I have reflected and decided to remain fully committed to my new role at Roma,” Ranieri told ANSA.

“The Friedkins gave me full support, backing me regardless of any decision I could make about the national team; this decision is mine.”