Chelsea are reportedly preparing to intensify their interest in Brentford striker Igor Thiago as Xabi Alonso’s influence over the club’s transfer strategy begins immediately.

The former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss has become the sixth permanent manager during the BlueCo regime in west London.

As things stand, Barcelona are prioritising the signing of a new striker above all else going into the summer transfer window. Julian Alvarez has been their leading target, but with the expectation

Victor Osimhen’s representatives and intermediaries are once again actively exploring elite-level opportunities across Europe, with Chelsea in the mix to sign him as they prepare for the arrival for Xabi Alonso,

Marc: Xabi Alonso has now gone from being a Liverpool legend to a former hero, just like Michael Owen did. Going to one of your club's biggest rivals is always a big no-no. It makes you think that he would've gone to Manchester United,

Cole Palmer has already told incoming manager Xabi Alonso who is "best ever" player in the Chelsea squad. Palmer was tasked by team-mate Joao Pedro with picking his dream five-a-side team from the current Blues squad.

Xabi Alonso being named Chelsea manager is a message to the players and fans alike. The key word being ‘manager’ rather than ‘head coach’. Each of his BlueCo predecessors were handed the latter