Chelsea are already planning first signing of the Xabi Alonso era

Chelsea have reignited their interest in a player who said "yes" to the club last summer, according to reports – and he could end up being the first major signing of the Xabi Alonso era.

It was widely reported on Saturday that Alonso will be confirmed as Chelsea's new manager (not head coach) ahead of their Premier League clash against Tottenham on Tuesday evening.

The 44-year-old Spaniard, who has been out of work since being sacked by Real Madrid in January, is set to sign a four-year contract with the Blues following extensive talks in London last week.

Before agreeing terms to become the new Chelsea boss, Alonso was keen to seek assurances over the club's transfer strategy and coach's authority, according to a report from ESPN.

One transfer that could come to fruition in the not-so-distant future involves AC Milan and France goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who is admired by those behind the scenes at Stamford Bridge.

In fact, the 30-year-old was close to signing for Chelsea last summer and even said "yes" to the club, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, but a move fell through after his asking price became a sticking point.

However, the Blues have reignited their interest ahead of the upcoming window as they are keen to upgrade on current number one Robert Sanchez.

"Chelsea has never forgotten Mike, even if for now we’re simply in the informational phase, let’s call it in-depth analysis," the above report reads. "But, depending on how the Rossoneri season ends, it could become much more."

Chelsea have reignited their interest in Maignan. Image credit: Getty

AC Milan could finish as high as second or as low as sixth with two games remaining.

Xabi Alonso believes Chelsea need two new centre-backs

Away from the potential addition of Maignan and Alonso believes defensive recruits are a must, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

Earlier this week, he wrote: "We’ve been told that Alonso is not ‘asking for the keys’ at Chelsea or making any major demands. He is just seeking assurances around recruitment this summer, especially the back line."

"Alonso believes Chelsea need to add two new centre backs, and he wants to make sure that will be addressed as a priority," added Phillips.