Chelsea step up interest in Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola | OneFootball

Andoni Iraola is high on Chelsea’s shortlist as they seek to appoint a new permanent manager to replace Liam Rosenior.

Sky Sports.ch claims they have started laying the groundwork to convince him to join them.

The club considers him to be a strong fit due to his ‘intense and modern style of play, based on pressing and directness’.

Crystal Palace are also considering Iraola as a replacement for Oliver Glasner. However, he wants to join a big club and is ready to weigh up his options before making a decision.

The 43-year-old has impressed with Bournemouth, despite financial constraints, which has contributed to Chelsea’s interest.

He guided them to their highest-ever points tally in the Premier League last term and could now guide them to their first-ever European qualification this season.

Players such as Dean Huijsen, Antoine Semenyo, Milos Kerkez and Ilya Zabarnyi improved under Iraola before securing bigger moves. Chelsea’s young squad could improve significantly under him.

However, there are concerns about whether his high-intensity style could fit at Chelsea.

Negotiations between Iraola and the Blues’ hierarchy are not yet advanced, leaving the door open for other options.

Former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso and Fulham’s Marco Silva are also on their shortlist.

Chelsea will take their time before making a final decision on their new boss.