Chelsea's pursuit of Andoni Iraola has received a significant boost after reports in Spain suggested Athletic Club have reached an agreement with Edin Terzic to become their next manager. The 43-year-old Bournemouth boss is due to leave the Cherries at the end of the season, and Athletic had been considered a natural destination given his Basque heritage.
According to Basque publication Deia, the former Borussia Dortmund head coach has agreed to succeed Ernesto Valverde, who is stepping down at the end of his third spell at the club. Terzic, previously linked with Tottenham, has held discussions with Athletic for several weeks and is now expected to take charge from the 2026/27 season, removing one major rival from the race for Iraola's signature.
Iraola, who has led Bournemouth on an unbeaten run since early January, declined to be drawn on whether he would hold talks with Chelsea should a formal approach be made. Speaking after Wednesday's 2-2 draw with Leeds United, he said: "No, I think I said it when I announced I was not continuing here. For me, now, it's about Bournemouth. Four games. We have an incredible position, (an) incredible fight (ahead)."
He added: "(This) past week, you were asking me about other clubs. I don't know exactly which ones, but also, as a sign of respect for Bournemouth, I cannot talk right now about my future because it's not what worries the Bournemouth supporters."
Chelsea find themselves in the market for a new permanent head coach after dismissing Liam Rosenior following a 3-0 loss to Brighton. Callum McFarlane will take interim charge until the end of the season, with the final stages of the appointment process expected to be delayed until after the World Cup in the United States.
Other names in the frame include Xabi Alonso, Luis Enrique, Julian Nagelsmann and Cesc Fabregas, while Manchester United's managerial decision could also influence the Blues. Michael Carrick, who has impressed at Old Trafford, remains a possible contender, but Iraola stands out as the early frontrunner with recent and consistent Premier League experience.
