Chelsea have opened discussions with Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola as the club intensify plans to appoint a permanent head coach ahead of next season.
The west London club are reviewing several candidates following the departures of Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior, with Iraola emerging as one of the leading names under consideration after Bournemouth’s impressive campaign.
The Spaniard has attracted attention after guiding Bournemouth close to a possible European qualification spot, a development widely viewed as one of the Premier League’s surprise stories this season. Chelsea officials are understood to have met with the former Rayo Vallecano coach as part of ongoing evaluations by the club’s ownership group, BlueCo.
Palace rejected amid Chelsea interest
Interest in Iraola has also come from Crystal Palace, but the Bournemouth manager has reportedly turned down approaches from the south London side.
Speaking recently about speculation surrounding his future, Iraola said: “I’m in no rush. I will not talk about my future. I’m fully focused on trying to finish this season with a reward, something tangible for the players and supporters.”
Palace have been searching for managerial alternatives amid uncertainty surrounding Oliver Glasner, though Iraola’s immediate focus appears to remain on Bournemouth’s final matches of the season.
Chelsea’s interest is also believed to have been aided by agency connections, with both Iraola and former Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso represented by the same management company.
Alonso, Silva also under review
Alonso remains a strong contender within Chelsea’s hierarchy, with club executives reportedly viewing him as a manager capable of leading a long-term rebuild at Stamford Bridge.
Meanwhile, Marco Silva is also being monitored after another steady season with Fulham. However, Fulham are understood to be keen on extending Silva’s stay at Craven Cottage.
Chelsea are expected to make a final decision in the coming weeks as preparations begin for the 2026-27 campaign.