New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has finally signed in at Cobham, and The Chelsea Chronicle understands he has already singled out Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga as his number one target this summer.
Alonso took charge of his first training session with the first team squad on Thursday, with the likes of Cole Palmer, Estevao Willian and Joao Pedro all present with the squad.
- READ MORE: Xabi Alonso’s first Chelsea training session may have revealed Geovany Quenda’s position next season
The likes of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo were not involved due to their participation in the World Cup, with the former still eyeing a move to Real Madrid this summer.
Chelsea fans, share your expectations for Xabi Alonso! 🏆
Xabi Alonso pushing for Chelsea to sign Eduardo Camavinga
A possible deal involving players from the Spanish giants going the other way has been discussed, and Eduardo Camavinga is one of the players who could become surplus to requirements should the Argentine join.
Transfer expert Ekrem Konur has exclusively told The Chelsea Chronicle that Alonso has ‘initiated contact’ regarding signing Camavinga this summer.
He said: “Chelsea’s new manager Xabi Alonso has placed Real Madrid’s midfielder Eduardo Camavinga at the top of his wishlist to strengthen the squad for the summer transfer window. The Spanish tactician has reportedly initiated contacts, though the biggest hurdle remains convincing the French midfielder to leave Spain.
“Real Madrid do not prioritize selling Camavinga. The club continues to view him as a vital piece of their long-term project and broad squad depth. Because of this, Chelsea’s initial inquiries have been rebuffed. However, Alonso’s persistence and Chelsea’s desire to inject dynamism into their midfield are keeping the file very much alive.
“Sources indicate that while Chelsea have yet to submit a formal bid, any potential offer would need to be in the region of €60 million to even test the waters. Although this figure sits below Real Madrid’s internal valuation of the player, it marks the opening stages of a major transfer saga.
“The Camavinga situation will be one of the most closely watched storylines of the summer window. Chelsea’s financial power, Xabi Alonso’s drawing power, and Real Madrid’s ultimate stance will dictate whether this blockbuster move materializes.”
Chelsea’s need to sign a new midfielder has only increased following the sale of Andrey Santos to Manchester United. The Blues are set to bank £50m from his departure.
With Marco Palestra officially in the building, does he instantly start over Reece James or Malo Gusto?👀
Chelsea relying on Alonso’s influence in transfer market
We have already seen how Alonso’s influence can revive a deal that looks as if it would not happen. Marco Palestra joined Chelsea off the back of the Spaniard’s request after looking set to join Inter Milan.
It was already seen as a major coup to convince Alonso to take over at Stamford Bridge after the woeful 2025/26 season, and sub-optimal treatment of Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior before him.
The club should therefore be doing all they can to give the new manager what he wants in the transfer market, and his experience working with Camavinga before at Real Madrid.
It remains to be seen though if he can be convinced to give up Champions League football, as the Blues aim to return to Europe’s top table next season under Alonso.
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