Chelsea have begun reaching out to potential managerial candidates as the club accelerates its search for a permanent head coach.
Among the names already identified as possible replacements for Liam Rosenior, who was dismissed last month, are Andoni Iraola, Xabi Alonso, and Marco Silva. It is also understood that Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is under consideration.
Former Flamengo manager Filipe Luis and Como head coach Cesc Fabregas — both former Chelsea players — have supporters within the club’s hierarchy.
The club hopes to appoint a new head coach well before pre-season training begins in early July.
Iraola, Alonso, Silva, and Glasner are all either currently out of work or set to be free agents by the end of the season, meaning Chelsea would not need to pay compensation for any of them.
Xabi Alonso, who left his role as Real Madrid manager in January, is reportedly confident about his chances of landing the job, though sources at Chelsea insist the race remains wide open.
Oliver Glasner is expected to leave Crystal Palace when his contract expires this summer and is said to be open to staying in England.
Similarly, Andoni Iraola has confirmed he will depart Bournemouth at the end of the season. The Spaniard is Crystal Palace’s top target to replace Glasner, and the Eagles have already held extensive talks with him. However, Iraola is taking time to consider his options amid interest from both Palace and Chelsea. Sources indicate the 43-year-old is also open to entering the next season without a club, leaving him available for any mid-season openings.
Marco Silva’s contract with Fulham expires this summer, but he has been offered a three-year extension. The Portuguese coach is reported to have options abroad, with clubs in Saudi Arabia also showing interest should he leave Craven Cottage.
