Chelsea have reportedly opened talks with Xabi Alonso about stepping in as their next manager. The 44-year-old Spanish tactician is currently available after parting ways with Real Madrid in January—just seven months into a three-year contract signed last summer.

This development comes as the Blues intensify their search for a permanent head coach following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior last month, a decision driven by a string of underwhelming results. According to The Times, the initial conversations have been "cautiously encouraging," though the club remains at an "early stage" of the process. Sources emphasize that Chelsea are "not close to agreeing a deal with a preferred candidate" just yet.

In addition to Alonso, the west London outfit has also made contact with two other Premier League managers: outgoing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola and Fulham's Marco Silva, whose contract expires at the end of the season. Former Chelsea defender Filipe Luis has been "discussed internally" as a potential option, and there's reportedly another mystery name on the shortlist. Alonso, who spent five years as a player with Liverpool, has been linked to the Anfield hot seat as well, but recent reports suggest the Reds are likely to stick with Arne Slot after he guided them to UEFA Champions League qualification. Despite this, Alonso is said to be "open to the possibility" of taking charge at Stamford Bridge ahead of next season.

Alonso's coaching journey began with Real Sociedad's B team before he took his first senior role at Bayer Leverkusen in 2022. His tenure in Germany was nothing short of remarkable: in his second season, he led Leverkusen to an unbeaten domestic campaign, securing a historic Bundesliga and German Cup double. The club also reached the UEFA Europa League final, falling to Atalanta in Dublin. With such an impressive pedigree, Alonso brings both tactical nous and a winning mentality—qualities that could be exactly what Chelsea need to turn their fortunes around.