Chelsea star Alonso ignoring talk of Real Madrid return

Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso is paying no attention to reports suggesting that he could soon return to his roots at Real Madrid.

The 27-year-old was born and raised in the Spanish capital, and he joined the Blancos’ academy system as a promising youngster.

He made just one senior appearance for Real before seeking regular game time elsewhere, with productive spells enjoyed at Bolton and Fiorentina.

Chelsea brought him back to the Premier League in 2016, and he tasted title glory in his debut campaign, with his impressive development now seeing him linked with a second stint in Madrid.

Alonso, who has forced his way into the Spain squad for the first time this season, is ignoring the rumours for now though, telling Marca: “I have not considered that possibility, I just try to give the best of me to my team.”

He added on his past experiences at Real: “I made my debut with [Manuel] Pellegrini in 2009/10, and that summer I had the opportunity to go to the Premier League.

“I don't know what would've happened if I stayed, I live in the present.”

That present is at Chelsea, where he has scored seven goals from a wing-back role this season, which is a new personal best, but the Blues have struggled as a collective to build on their title triumph of 2016-17.

“In England, after winning the Premier League, it is normal to have a difficult year, especially with the level that Manchester City are maintaining throughout the season,” said Alonso.

“Now we have an important end of the year, to qualify for the Champions League and fight for the FA Cup.

“We're looking forward to it.”

If Chelsea were to collect major silverware and secure a top-four finish, then some of the pressure placed on Antonio Conte would be eased.

Alonso is among those hoping to see the Italian stay on past the summer, with speculation continuing to suggest that his days in west London may be numbered.

“He [Conte] has done a great job and we only think about finishing well,” added a versatile performer who has been an almost ever-present under a coach who signed him for £24 million.