Steve Clarke Set to Quit Chelsea for West Ham

Steve Clarke has resigned as assistant manager at Chelsea, according to reports.

The Scot has been heavily rumoured to be keen on taking up a similar post under Gianfranco Zola at West Ham, who was unveiled today.

The Times reports that Clarke has agreed a three-year contract and will be unveiled within the next couple of days.

Chelsea have confirmed that Clarke has handed in his resignation, but state that they have not given West Ham permission to talk to him.

"Chelsea can confirm that West Ham have made an approach with regards to talking to Steve Clarke," a statement on the official Chelsea website read.

"They have not been given permission to talk to him."

Chelsea added: "Steve Clarke has tendered his resignation as assistant first-team coach. We have not accepted his resignation. Talks are continuing."

However, Scolari appears resigned to losing Clarke.

"Now I have been told he is going I am sad but I understand Steve.

"All people have projects in their life. I don't agree with his decision but I am happy for him because I like Stevie.

"I like him as a person and as a coach and I wish him all the best."

The departure of Clarke severs a long link between him and Chelsea, a link established over 20 years ago.

Clarke played for the club between 1987 and 1998, making over 400 appearances. He made such an impact that in 2003, he was voted into Chelsea's All Time XI.

Clarke returned to the club in 2003 as youth team coach, before being appointed to assistant manager by Jose Mourinho. The Scotsman held the position under the brief reign of Avram Grant, but it appears as if his employment under Luiz Felipe Scolari won't be lasting long at all.