Liverpool Firmly Back Slot as Alonso Eyes Chelsea Move

Fabrizio Romano has moved to quash speculation linking Xabi Alonso with a move to Anfield, confirming that Liverpool's hierarchy at Fenway Sports Group have made no contact with the Spanish coach and intend to stick with Arne Slot.

Despite mounting pressure on Slot following Liverpool's underwhelming campaign in 2025/26—a stark contrast to his Premier League title triumph the previous season—the club's ownership remains steadfast in their support. Romano has stressed repeatedly that Alonso and Liverpool have had zero conversations throughout 2026, with neither the manager nor his representatives engaging with the Merseyside club.

The narrative has shifted dramatically, however, with Alonso now open to exploring a Premier League adventure. According to Romano, those in Alonso's camp have signalled receptiveness to English football, which explains the flurry of recent headlines surrounding the 44-year-old.

Chelsea emerge as the most concrete destination, with talkSPORT's Ben Jacobs reporting that the Blues have established contact with Alonso regarding their managerial vacancy. The west London outfit have been searching for a permanent successor since sacking Liam Rosenior in April—himself a replacement for Enzo Maresca, who departed in January.

Alonso would reportedly be amenable to the Chelsea role should a suitable arrangement materialise. Yet Romano cautions that BlueCo, Chelsea's ownership, have not yet settled on their preferred candidate and are proceeding with considerable deliberation. The club remains in the assessment phase, weighing various options before committing fully to any one target.

Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola is another name in the mix, with Romano noting that Iraola similarly favours remaining in the Premier League rather than entertaining foreign offers. Both managers appear keen on securing top-flight positions for next season, leaving Chelsea with several compelling possibilities to consider as they navigate their recruitment process methodically.