Chelsea to sign Xabi Alonso on a free transfer?

Chelsea are reportedly interested in acquiring the services of Real Madrid midfield star Xabi Alonso on a free transfer at the end of the season, according to the London Evening Standard.

The former Liverpool midfielder has not featured for Los Blancos this season under new manager Carlo Ancelloti following a succession of injuries during pre-season, but is now back on training, preparing for an imminent return to the first team. 

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is keen on signing his former player at the end of the current campaign, and with Real Madrid showing no signs of offering a deal, the West London side are considered favourites to land the Spaniard's signature.

Real Madrid are expected to add a couple of signings in the midfield department during the winter transfer window,and this could likely end the 31-year-old's spell at the Bernabeu.