Despite a wide pool of names being mentioned as candidates to become the new Chelsea manager, the list of those the club are actually interested in is just three long.
BlueCo are looking for a new permanent manager for the fifth time since taking over the club following the decision to part ways with Liam Rosenior in April.
The owners are feeling pressure to get this decision right, given the fact that supporters have made it clear that they are not happy with the way the club is being run.
QUARTER-FINAL 1: Reece James vs Estevao Willian
Chelsea only targeting Xabi Alonso, Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva
In the last 24 hours, Xabi Alonso has been strongly linked with a switch to Chelsea, as potential moves to former clubs Liverpool and Bayern Munich look blocked this summer.
The Spaniard is one of the names the club are actually interested in, and journalist Lloyd Canfield believes there are only three genuine candidates at this stage.
Fulham FC v AFC Bournemouth - Premier League
Photo by Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images
He told the SPTC Podcast that the current options are Alonso, Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva.
He said: “So to my knowledge the three leading candidates are Andoni Iraola, Xabi Alonso, Marco Silva. Beyond that from what I know there’s no interest in anyone else.
“There’s no interest in Xavi. John Terry is never going to happen. And beyond that, I mean, Lampard’s not coming back. Tuchel’s not coming back. Thiago Silva’s not going to be the manager. So they’re they’re the three somewhat realistic candidates.”
It has been said that the club would like Premier League experience in their next head coach, potentially pushing Iraola and Silva up the list.
What will Xabi Alonso go with if he gets the Chelsea job, a back three or back four? 🧐
Chelsea's potential XI under Xabi Alonso
Behdad Eghbali wants Iraola at Chelsea
Behdad Eghbali played a key role in moving the club on from Mauricio Pochettino and Enzo Maresca, and his opinion will hold weight this summer.
The owner reportedly wants Iraola as his next manager, with him set to be a free agent at the end of the season when he leaves Bournemouth.
The Spaniard boasts an excellent record this season, with his side undefeated since a loss to Arsenal at the start of January.
There will be questions about whether he is able to step up to the levels required of Chelsea and their supporters, and what will happen if he goes on a long winless run like his Bournemouth side did earlier this season.
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