EPL: Chelsea identify another defender to sign for Alonso

Chelsea have identified another defender to sign for their manager, Xabi Alonso.

The Premier League West London club recently signed defender Marco Palestra from Atalanta after they spent last season on loan at Cagliari.

Chelsea are eager to strengthen their backline after appointing Alonso as their new manager ahead of the upcoming 2026/27 season.

Alonso is known for playing in a back three, which means Chelsea need specialist centre-backs who are a good fit for his system.

However, according to El Nacional, Chelsea have identified Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi and offered £68m for the Spain international’s signature.

But the offer was swiftly turned down by the La Liga champions, the report claims.