The Xabi Alonso to Chelsea situation has certainly heated up over the last few days. One has to wonder if this is a sign that a move is getting close or at least closer. Or is it just media noise? Well, considering the number of reliable outlets and sources that have confirmed the rumour, one would think that it leans towards the first.
In many ways, Alonso would be the perfect fit for what Chelsea need right now. At least on paper. The Blues have a young squad they have struggled to get the best out of.
Alonso is someone who can command their respect from day one, has proven that he can win with youngsters during his time at Bayer Leverkusen and his reputation might even help Chelsea attract top players. So, in many ways, it could be a brilliant appointment, even if some doubts remain due to his failed Real Madrid stint.
David Ornstein is arguably the most reliable journalist in football today. And he has provided an update on the situation involving Alonso and Chelsea while speaking on The Athletic FC Podcast. He said:
Now our understanding is that Chelsea are exploring a deal for Xabi Alonso. It would appear that he is at the forefront of their thoughts right now. The information we have is that Xabi Alonso would be open to this possibility, though nothing is done yet.
Ornstein confirms Alonso is at forefront of Chelsea’s thoughts
So, Ornstein’s comments do suggest that Alonso is the top target for Chelsea at the moment. But he continues to maintain that nothing is done yet.
Andoni Iraola was once again brought up as a strong contender. He is going to be without a club this summer as well, having already confirmed his impending Bournemouth exit. And while there has been talk of a move to Crystal Palace, that would feel like a move in a sideways direction rather than going forward.
Iraola is a Premier League-proven manager and has done a tremendous job at Bournemouth. But most fans would like to see Alonso get the job. A large part of that might be because he is the bigger name. Then again, he also feels like the more proven fit for what Chelsea need right now.
What would change at Chelsea under Alonso?
This might depend on what Chelsea are willing to change. Are BlueCo ready to do away with their model completely? Or will they go for ‘tweaks’, as has been the suggestion over the past month or so?
One thing is clear. That is the need for change. Things cannot continue like this. Not at Chelsea. Winning is second nature to this club. Or at least it used to be. The fans want that feeling to be restored.
Chelsea could go some way in doing that if they can win the FA Cup final this weekend against Manchester City. But much bigger decisions need to be made in the summer when it comes to the next manager and the transfer recruitment that follows his arrival.
