BLUES TO DIG IN OVER ALONSO

CHELSEA are set to rebuff all offers for Marcos Alonso as the Spaniard emerges as a target for Atletico Madrid.

While the English transfer window shut earlier this month, Spanish clubs can do business until August 31, leaving Premier League clubs vulnerable.

Atletico are ready to make an offer for the stylish Alonso before their window closes. But the 27-year-old has established himself as a key player for the Blues and has started both of Maurizio Sarri’s games in charge, scoring the late winner on Saturday evening in

a thrilling 3-2 victory against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge. Add Alonso’s importance to the fact that Chelsea cannot replace the left wing back until January at the earliest which means the west London club are almost certain to reject all offers for the player.

Alonso (right) was born in Madrid and started his career at Atletico’s arch-rivals Real before moving to Bolton in 2010. He joined Fiorentina in 2013, which also saw him have a loan spell at Sunderland, but his career has taken off since ce arriving at Stamford Bridge in August 2016 under Antonio Conte. He has been a key member of the Premier League ue and FA Cup-winning sides of the past two seasons.

A return to the Spanish capital io, could appeal to Alonso, who has one international al cap, but the defender is said d to be settled in London and d there is little sign he would d agitate for a move.

Similarly, Real Madrid could d make one final bid to prise Eden Hazard from Stamford Bridge, but the Blues insist their star man is not for sale.