Chelsea FC are edging closer to appointing Xabi Alonso as the club’s new permanent head coach after intensifying negotiations in recent days.
The Stamford Bridge hierarchy have been searching for a replacement following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior last month, with several candidates linked to the role, including Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Oliver Glasner.
However, Alonso has now emerged as Chelsea’s preferred choice, with reports indicating discussions between both parties have advanced significantly ahead of a possible official announcement in the coming days.
The Blues were reportedly keen to avoid distractions before their FA Cup final clash against Manchester City FC, which ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat at Wembley.
Despite finishing the season without silverware, Chelsea are optimistic about the future as they continue reshaping the club ahead of next season.
Alonso, who previously managed Bayer 04 Leverkusen and also played for Real Madrid CF and Liverpool FC during his career, is understood to have been open to taking the Chelsea job provided he received certain assurances regarding squad control and long-term planning.
According to multiple reports, Chelsea are prepared to hand the Spaniard a four-year contract as part of a long-term project focused on developing the club’s young squad.
The London side are also willing to give Alonso greater influence during the summer transfer window, allowing him to shape the squad according to his tactical philosophy.
Chelsea’s performance in the FA Cup final against Manchester City is believed to have reinforced confidence within the club that the current squad possesses strong potential despite an inconsistent campaign.
Defenders Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana impressed with their defensive discipline at Wembley, while midfielder Moises Caicedo once again showed his importance in controlling the midfield battle.
Alonso’s immediate challenge will be bringing stability to a squad that has endured constant managerial changes in recent seasons.
The former Spain international is expected to focus on implementing a clearer tactical identity while also making key decisions on player departures and arrivals this summer.
Midfielder Enzo Fernandez has recently been linked with a possible exit, while young forwards Liam Delap and Alejandro Garnacho are among the players whose futures could be reviewed during the rebuilding process.
Alonso had also recently been linked with a potential move to Liverpool amid growing pressure on current manager Arne Slot following a disappointing campaign at Anfield.
However, Liverpool are still expected to continue with Slot for next season unless their situation changes dramatically in the closing stages of the campaign.
Chelsea now hope to finalise Alonso’s appointment quickly in order to give him a full pre-season to prepare the squad for the 2026-27 season.
