Chelsea eye Xabi Alonso as Arne Slot’s Liverpool future becomes clearer

Last Updated on 28 April 2026

The managerial landscape in English football is shifting quietly but significantly. With Liverpool seemingly content with what they have and Chelsea looking to make a statement appointment, the paths of two big coaches are beginning to diverge.

At the centre of it all is Xabi Alonso . A man whose next move could reshape the Premier League’s top-flight ambitions for years to come.

Here’s the latest according to reports in England about Liverpool and, now, Chelsea’s pursuit of Xabi Alonso.

Chelsea to make ambitious move for Xabi Alonso

According to The Independent, Chelsea have reached out to Xabi Alonso as they look to install a world-class manager ahead of next season. The Blues believe they have a genuine opening, and the timing is no coincidence.

With Alonso being available in the summer after being sacked by Real Madrid in early 2026, a move to a major club is widely expected. Chelsea are positioning themselves as serious suitors with many believing that Alonso would welcome a return to the Premier League.

The west London club are understood to be targeting a summer appointment. Calum McFarlane replaced Liam Rosenior in the short-term, until the end of the season. For Chelsea, Alonso as the calibre of manager capable of returning them to the summit of English football.

Liverpool’s stance on Arne Slot hands Chelsea a major opportunity

What makes Chelsea’s pursuit all the more notable is the context surrounding Liverpool. In what has been a difficult campaign, the Reds are still favorites to get Champions League football.

And now, reports out of Anfield suggest the club’s hierarchy are expected to back Arne Slot for another season, satisfied that a top-five finish and Champions League qualification represents sufficient progress from the Dutchman after winning the Premier League in his debut season.

Fans might not fully agree with the club’s decision to stick with Slot but regardless of their opinion, it has opened the door for Chelsea. Just weeks ago, Alonso was widely seen as Liverpool’s most likely long-term successor to Slot.

Now, with that path appearing closed, Chelsea could pull off a coup hurting rivals even before a ball is kicked.