Manager Andoni Iraola is high on Chelsea’s shortlist as they seek to appoint a new permanent manager to replace Liam Rosenior.
Sky Sports.ch now reports that they have stepped up their interest in the Spanish tactician. They have begun laying the groundwork to convince him to join them.
Chelsea hierarchy consider him a strong fit due to his ‘intense and modern style of play, based on pressing and directness’.
Crystal Palace are also considering Iraola to replace Oliver Glasner. However, contrary to reports, he is not convinced by their project.
Iraola prefers to join a club with a greater ambition than the Eagles and he is ready to weigh his options before making a decision.
The 43-year-old has impressed with Bournemouth, despite financial constraints, which has contributed to Chelsea’s interest.
He guided them to their highest-ever point tally in the Premier League last term and could now guide them to their first-ever European qualification this season.
Players such as Dean Huijsen, Antoine Semenyo, Milos Kerkez, and Ilya Zabarnyi improved under Iraola, before securing bigger moves. Chelsea’s young squad could improve significantly under him.
However, there are concerns about whether his high-intensity style could fit at Chelsea, given their domestic and European commitments.
Negotiations are not advanced yet between Iraola and the Blues’ hierarchy, leaving the door open for other options.
Former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso and Fulham’s Marco Silva are also on their shortlist.
It is believed that Chelsea are ready to take their time before making a final decision on their new boss.
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