Chelsea are keeping their options open in the managerial hunt, even after reportedly holding positive talks with Xabi Alonso, according to The Guardian. The Blues are taking a measured approach as they search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior last month—just four months after his appointment.

Rosenior became the second manager to leave Stamford Bridge this season, following Enzo Maresca's departure in January. Now, Chelsea's hierarchy has drawn up a shortlist of five or six candidates, with Alonso and Andoni Iraola emerging as the top choices at this stage.

While the club has also conducted background checks on Marco Silva, Filipe Luis, and Oliver Glasner, these names are reportedly lower on the priority list. Chelsea's leadership believes Iraola is ready for a high-profile role, while Alonso brings experience at the highest level—including guiding Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title last season.

Alonso is seen as the preferred candidate, but The Guardian reports that Chelsea are keeping their options open despite the encouraging early talks. The club's hierarchy is confident they can land their top target, and there's optimism after initial conversations with Alonso's camp.

Interestingly, reports suggest that rumors of Alonso waiting for the Liverpool job are off the mark, giving Chelsea a clear path to secure the former Real Madrid boss. Since being sacked by Real Madrid in January, Alonso has been out of work, but his stock remains high after that historic unbeaten league campaign with Leverkusen.

For Chelsea fans, this measured approach signals that the club is being strategic rather than rushing into a decision. With a clear favorite in mind and positive momentum in talks, the Blues could be on the verge of landing one of the most sought-after managers in European football.