FORMER Rangers defender Paolo Vanoli has joined Antonio Conte's coaching staff at Premier League champions Chelsea after the club announced the manager has signed a new contract at Stamford Bridge.

Conte, who led the Blues to the title in his first season in charge after spells with Juventus and the Italian national team, penned a new two-year deal on Tuesday.

In a club statement, Vanoli was confirmed as the 47-year-old's new assistant, leaving his role as part of Giampiero Ventura's staff in the Italy set-up.

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Vanoli spent a season and a half at Ibrox between the summer of 2003 and January 2005.

Conte exaplained to Chelsea's official website that big challenges lie ahead as the West London side look to retain the English crown next term.

"I am very happy to have signed a new contract with Chelsea," he said.

"We worked extremely hard in our first year to achieve something amazing, which I am very proud of. Now we must work even harder to stay at the top.  

"The Chelsea fans have given me so much support since I arrived here one year ago and it is important we continue to succeed together."