Chelsea ‘confident’ of hiring Xabi Alonso after latest talks, new manager update given

The Spaniard has impressed in early talks with the club, and seems to have moved ahead of the likes of Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva in their thinking ahead of the decision.

Does Pep Guardiola have a point?🤔

Chelsea ‘confident’ of hiring Xabi Alonso

There is perhaps reason behind the club’s decision to prioritise the former Real Madrid coach, with Simon Phillips issuing a positive update on the situation.

He stated on the SPTC podcast that Chelsea have been left confident that they will be able to hire Alonso after their latest round of talks.

He said: “I’ve heard from three or four sources – they’re all saying the same thing. There’s definitely optimism. I’m not saying that it’s advancing or it’s done, but it’s very positive.

“They’ve had the talks – Alonso and Chelsea have spoken. It has been a good start, and what I believe now is happening is Chelsea are giving Alonso time to think about everything they’ve discussed, and whether he wants to take the role. From what I’ve got, is he has left them feeling that it can be done, and they can agree on everything.

“So I believe that Chelsea are feeling quite confident after these talks that Alonso will come, but there’s still a long way to go.”

Blues supporters will be more than wary of the situation at Liverpool as a potential stumbling block, given Alonso’s legendary time as a player there.

At this stage though, reports are indicating there is no interest in sacking Arne Slot, seemingly giving Chelsea a clear run.

Would you make any changes to our FA Cup final XI?

James and Colwill starting together for the first time since the Club World Cup…

Alonso’s first demands to Chelsea

In those talks with Chelsea, the former Liverpool midfielder has already made demands over how the club should operate for next season.

This includes with their transfer policy. Alonso wants two new centre-backs to be brought in by the club when the window opens again.

This could perhaps hint towards the formation the Spaniard would be looking to play if he was to take over at Stamford Bridge.

He prioritised a back three when he was in charge of Bayer Leverkusen, but would need suitable options to join Levi Colwill in this backline.