UMVA has learned that Chelsea's summer transfer window is shaping up to be a significant test of the club's trust in Xabi Alonso, with the Spaniard expected to play a substantial role in shaping the squad.
There is constant dialogue between Alonso and Chelsea's sporting leadership team as they plan for the market, suggesting that Alonso will have a strong voice in the club's transfer dealings, although the final decisions will still be guided by the club's recruitment structure.
Chelsea are believed to be targeting signings in three key areas: centre-back, central midfield, and left wing, as Alonso looks to build a balanced squad with a clear football identity and structure.
Alonso's job will be to transform a collection of expensive players into a cohesive team with consistency, and a new centre-back is seen as a priority to add more defensive authority, while central midfield is also a key area, particularly if Alonso wants more control and tactical intelligence in build-up.
The left wing position is also interesting, with several attackers facing uncertain futures and the club still searching for the right balance in the final third, and Alonso's arrival gives Chelsea a real chance to reset properly, but only if the club stay disciplined and focused on building a balanced squad.
Several departures are expected from Stamford Bridge when the window opens, with players such as Marc Cucurella potentially attracting interest from other clubs, including Atletico Madrid, and Chelsea valuing him at around £60m.
The bigger challenge for Chelsea is not just signing new players, but building a balanced squad around a clear football idea, with Alonso's system and vision at the forefront, and the club needing players who fit his system, accept their roles, and raise the level immediately.
