29 Apr 2026 14:03 BST |
4 min read
Chelsea could convince Xabi Alonso to become their new manager by beating Manchester City to the signing of a player already approved by the Spanish coach.
Alonso is among the candidates being considered by Chelsea as their new manager following Liam Rosenior’s sacking last week, with talks also being held over Andoni Iraola and Marco Silva.
Chelsea could tempt Alonso into a return to management after the 44-year-old was sacked by Real Madrid in January, having only joined the Spanish giants from Bayer Leverkusen six months earlier in June 2025.
One of Alonso’s last moves as Leverkusen boss was to sign Ibrahim Maza from Hertha Berlin for €12 million and the 20-year-old has had an encouraging debut season with his new club, which has prompted interest from Chelsea, City and Aston Villa, according to TEAMtalk.
It is claimed that all three sides are ‘keeping close watch’ on Maza due to his development in the Bundesliga this season, with the youngster’s versatility at being able to play all across the midfield and attack proving a ‘key factor’.
City believe Maza could progress into a ‘long-term’ option in midfield, while Chelsea’s focus on elite young talent aligns with the Algerian’s profile, with Brighton, Brentford and Bournemouth also said to be watching closely.
’Very good signing’: Chelsea know Xabi Alonso’s thoughts on Ibrahim Maza
Maza has netted three goals and three assists for Leverkusen this season but teams have been impressed by his underlying numbers that highlight the wonderkid’s ability to get into dangerous areas and create chances for teammates.
Alonso spoke in May last year of Maza’s talent upon his signing, saying: “He’s a player with different qualities. Good between the lines with good potential.
“He has many things to develop, but we always think that our club is good for players young players who have that will to improve. And he has a good personality, he’s young but mature. So he’s a very good signing.”
Alonso’s admiration for Maza could prove a decisive factor in the coach’s decision over a new club, with plenty of teams still rating the former Spanish midfielder highly despite his disappointing stint in Madrid.
Chelsea have not made a decision over their new manager and are still exploring candidates including Alonso, while their choice is unlikely to impact their transfer policy or targets such as Maza.
However, Maza’s presence as one of the brightest talents in Germany would make him an appealing option for Chelsea and prove to Alonso that he will be backed with young stars to make any tenure at Stamford Bridge a successful one.
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