Chelsea optimistic about luring Xabi Alonso after early talks
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Xabi Alonso has reportedly been on Chelsea’s radar for at least three years. Image Credits: Imago ImagesChelsea will appoint a new permanent manager next season, with former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso among the leading candidates for the role.The former Bayer Leverkusen boss left Real Madrid earlier this year and is seen as a strong contender to return to management with Chelsea.
Despite difficulties during his brief spell in Madrid, he remains highly rated.Chelsea are also closely monitoring Andoni Iraola of AFC Bournemouth. The club are continuing to assess multiple options, with Marco Silva of Fulham, Oliver Glasner of Crystal Palace, and former Flamengo coach Filipe Luís also under consideration.Calum McFarlane is currently serving as interim head coach after the dismissal of Liam Rosenior, with Chelsea expected to take their time before making a final appointment.According to The Guardian, the Stamford Bridge hierarchy is confident of attracting their favoured candidate and there is optimism over how early talks with Alonso’s camp have gone.Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title in 2024, has been on Chelsea’s radar for at least three years.
His dream job is to manage Liverpool, although there is currently no vacancy at Anfield.Chelsea are in a period of “self-reflection” after the dismissal of Rosenior just three and a half months into his tenure, with the club now focused on making the squad more physical.That requirement has increased interest in Andoni Iraola, with Chelsea having already held talks with the Bournemouth boss. He is highly regarded for his work at Bournemouth, who remain in contention for European qualification despite player departures.Iraola’s work has also drawn attention from elsewhere, with reported contact from Manchester United , although they are expected to persist with Michael Carrick.At the same time, the current expectation is that Liverpool will continue with Arne Slot this summer, which means long-term admirer Xabi Alonso is unlikely to have an opening at Anfield for now.Alonso remains fondly remembered at Liverpool from his playing days between 2004 and 2009, when he won the Champions League in 2005 and the FA Cup the following year.