Xabi Alonso Pushes Chelsea Toward £30 Million World Cup Signing

Chelsea have emerged as favourites to sign Bosnia and Herzegovina midfielder Kerim Alajbegovic following his impressive World Cup displays.

The 18 year old attracted widespread attention after helping his country reach the knockout stage, with his standout performance against Qatar strengthening interest from several leading European clubs ahead of the summer transfer window this year.

According Metro on Thursday, July 23, 2026, Chelsea are leading the race for Alajbegovic after Xabi Alonso became particularly “enthusiastic” about bringing the teenager to Stamford Bridge.

The midfielder progressed through Bayer Leverkusen’s academy before moving to Red Bull Salzburg, where his rapid development convinced the German club to activate a buyback clause after only one season.

Alajbegovic started three World Cup matches before Bosnia and Herzegovina exited against the United States in the round of 32.

His memorable solo goal during a 3,1 victory over Qatar earned widespread praise and further increased his market value. Bayer Leverkusen are now reportedly willing to sell the attacking midfielder immediately for a fee of around £30 million.

Chelsea have already strengthened their squad under Alonso by signing Marco Palestra and completing a British record £117 million move for Morgan Rogers.

The club are also reshaping other areas of the squad, with Alejandro Garnacho expected to depart on loan, while Nicolas Jackson has been linked with a possible reunion with Unai Emery at Aston Villa.