By Ghazali Ibrahim
Premier League side Chelsea have reportedly reached an agreement with Spanish manager Xabi Alonso to become the club’s new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Multiple reports shows that Alonso had agreed in principle to a four-year contract with the London club following advanced talks with Chelsea’s hierarchy.
The former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid coach is expected to replace interim manager Calum McFarlane as Chelsea continue efforts to rebuild after a turbulent campaign marked by managerial instability and inconsistent performances.
According to reports, Chelsea’s owners, BlueCo, agreed to make adjustments to the club’s football structure to convince Alonso to take the job, including giving him greater influence over transfers and squad planning.
The 44-year-old Spaniard emerged as Chelsea’s top managerial target ahead of other candidates including Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva and Oliver Glasner.
Reports also indicated that several Chelsea players backed Alonso’s appointment, believing he is capable of restoring the club’s competitiveness.
Alonso built his managerial reputation after leading Bayer Leverkusen to a historic Bundesliga title before taking charge of Real Madrid in 2025.
However, he left the Spanish giants earlier this year after a difficult spell at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Chelsea are yet to make an official announcement, but reports suggest confirmation of the deal could come within days as preparations intensify for next season.
