Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has called on newly appointed Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso to secure the signing of free agent John Stones, claiming that the England international would inject much-needed experience and leadership into a youthful squad. The former Blues striker also suggested that Chelsea's lighter fixture list next season could ease concerns about Stones' injury history.

A new chapter under Alonso

Xabi Alonso was officially presented as Chelsea's new manager on Monday, succeeding Liam Rosenior. His appointment comes after a turbulent campaign that saw the club finish 10th in the Premier League. The season included the departure of Enzo Maresca in January and a brief interim spell under Rosenior.

The Spaniard has been handed the managerial role rather than that of head coach, granting him greater authority over transfer decisions. Alonso is reportedly keen on adding experienced names to the squad, with an earlier interest shown in Granit Xhaka. However, the Switzerland international has since pledged his future to Sunderland.

Now, former Chelsea forward Hasselbaink has proposed another seasoned addition, urging the club to target defender John Stones, who recently concluded his long tenure with Manchester City and is available on a free transfer.

Hasselbaink champions Stones signing

Hasselbaink argued that Chelsea’s youthful setup would greatly benefit from the addition of proven winners as Alonso aims to strengthen the team. He named Stones as a perfect candidate, citing both his footballing qualities and the advantage of Chelsea’s reduced workload after missing out on European competitions.

“I would love to see him [Alonso] go and get [John] Stones, who is a free agent,” Hasselbaink told WhoScored. “Everybody will say, ‘Oh, but he’s injured a lot.’ I think this year he will be a very good buy for Chelsea because Chelsea don’t play in the Champions League or in Europe, so it’s from Saturday to Saturday.”

Experience over potential

Hasselbaink believes that Chelsea’s absence from European football could help manage Stones’ physical workload more effectively. With fewer matches on the calendar, the defender would have ample recovery time while still contributing valuable leadership and experience to a youthful dressing room. “He will have more rest, and he brings a lot of experience as well. So he can at least play 30 matches,” Hasselbaink added.

Chelsea assessing summer priorities

Whether Alonso takes Hasselbaink’s recommendation remains uncertain, but the club’s transfer approach appears to be shifting toward incorporating more seasoned professionals. Stones is among the most high-profile free agents currently available, and Chelsea must weigh his wealth of experience against his recent injury concerns.

Nonetheless, any formal pursuit is expected to wait until after the World Cup, as Stones is presently focused on his international commitments with the Three Lions. Thomas Tuchel’s side are preparing to face Argentina in the semi-finals at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday.