The rumor mill is spinning at full speed as Chelsea's search for a new head coach intensifies, and one name keeps surfacing: Fulham boss Marco Silva. According to journalist Sebastien Vidal, key members of Silva's inner circle are already working closely with the Chelsea board to pave the way for him to take the reins at Stamford Bridge.

This comes after a turbulent season for the Blues, who have already cycled through two head coaches. Liam Rosenior was shown the door last month after less than four months in charge, following Enzo Maresca's departure back in January. For now, Calum McFarlane is holding down the fort as interim manager for the remainder of the season while the club's sporting directors cast a wide net in their search.

Silva isn't the only name on the shortlist—reports suggest there are seven or eight candidates under consideration, with Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola currently viewed as an early frontrunner. However, Silva's candidacy is bolstered by his agent, the super-agent Jorge Mendes, who is said to enjoy a strong working relationship with Chelsea's decision-makers.

Not everyone is convinced it's the right move, though. Veteran manager Sam Allardyce has publicly advised Silva to steer clear of the Chelsea job, warning of the instability that has plagued the club this season. Despite that, Vidal reports that "some in the entourage of the Portuguese coach are working with the board to make him the future coach of the Blues."

Don't expect a quick decision—Chelsea are unlikely to name a permanent successor before the season ends. Industry insiders, including David Ornstein, predict a new head coach will be in place early this summer. In the meantime, the rumor mill will keep churning, with Silva's name staying firmly in the headlines as the Blues look to rebuild and return to the top of the Premier League.