In exciting news for Chelsea, the Premier League club have announced their next permanent manager. Indeed, former Liverpool player Xabi Alonso will be calling the shots at Stamford Bridge next season.
The Spaniard will arrive off the back of a chaotic spell at Real Madrid, which saw him exit after just seven months in charge. Before that, though, he established himself as one of the best young coaches in Europe, winning a domestic treble with Bayer Leverkusen in 2024.
With Chelsea sacking both Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior this season, Alonso's first main job will be to steady the ship at Chelsea. Naturally, the club's activity in the summer window will be key for the new manager.
Alonso Wants Robert Sanchez Replaced
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It appears as though Alonso has already made up his mind on one key first-team player. According to reports from TEAMtalk, the Spaniard is eyeing up a number of players who could become the club's next established number one goalkeeper.
As things stand, Robert Sanchez is the current number one, but there have been long-term doubts over his quality. It's noted that Mike Penders, currently on loan at Strasbourg, was previously viewed as a possible number one going forward – especially when Liam Rosenior was in charge – but plans have now changed following Alonso's hiring.
With the Spaniard now in charge, it is claimed that 'one major priority now emerging is the signing of a more experienced goalkeeper.' As such, a six-man shortlist has reportedly been drawn up, and it appears to spell the end for goalkeeper Sanchez.
Indeed, after winning three titles with Lukas Hradecky in goal for Bayer Leverkusen, Alonso is said to be keen on placing an older option between the sticks. Hradecky, however, is not a target, as he is now 36.
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Jordan Pickford Among 6 Chelsea Goalkeeper Targets
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Among the six names listed, England international Jordan Pickford sticks out as the most eye-catching. The 32-year-old has been a Premier League stalwart at Everton for years now, and it's noted that Chelsea have 'long-standing admiration' for the player.
Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen and Sunderland’s Robin Roefs are also both known to fans of English football and are said to be 'highly appreciated' due to their long-term potential and modern profiles. But they may not quite have the level of experience Alonso is reportedly seeking to replace Sanchez.
On that front, Mike Maignan might better suit the bill. He's previously been tracked by the Blues, but no deal ever got across the line. It remains to be seen if that interest in the AC Milan star will be reignited this summer.
Atalanta ace Marco Carnesecchi is also said to be on the list. He's still only 25 years old and has let in just 57 goals in 50 games for the Italian club this season. Finally, Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa is said to also be 'admired within Chelsea’s recruitment structure'. The 26-year-old has just sealed his third Primeira Liga title in Portugal.