Chelsea have made an encouraging start to life under Xabi Alonso this season. The Blues sit fourth in the Premier League after collecting 13 points from seven matches.
They have recorded four victories, one draw and two defeats. Their attack has provided particular encouragement, with Cole Palmer remaining an influential figure.
Summer arrivals Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro have also strengthened Alonso’s attacking options. Chelsea demonstrated that firepower during their emphatic 5-1 victory over Bournemouth.
Recent performances have brought greater defensive stability as well. Chelsea followed consecutive victories with a 2-0 win away at Everton.
That result delivered their first Premier League clean sheet in 23 matches. However, Alonso could still strengthen another area of his squad.
Reece James recently underwent knee surgery and faces around three months on the sidelines. Marco Palestra remains young, while Malo Gusto could leave Stamford Bridge.
According to Simon Phillips, Xabi Alonso wants Chelsea to sign Real Madrid right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Alonso already knows the 28-year-old after managing him during his time at Real Madrid.
Alexander-Arnold has struggled for regular football under Jose Mourinho this season. Federico Valverde has also featured at right-back ahead of him recently.
Real Madrid are not actively pushing Alexander-Arnold towards the exit. However, the Spanish giants would consider selling him if they received a suitable offer.
Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City have all shown interest in his situation. Chelsea have now emerged as a particularly intriguing option because of Alonso’s desire for a reunion.
A potential arrival could also influence Gusto’s future at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea were prepared to sell the Frenchman during the summer but wanted a permanent deal.
Liverpool instead pursued a loan and rejected Chelsea’s £75M valuation. Gusto could now receive permission to leave if Chelsea secure Alexander-Arnold.
For Alonso, the potential deal would provide an opportunity to reunite with a familiar player while strengthening Chelsea’s options on the right.
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