Chelsea cannot ignore £100m January transfer mission despite crucial Xabi Alonso boost

Xabi Alonso was left purring at a masterclass in midfield from Romeo Lavia in Chelsea's 2-0 win over Manchester United on Saturday afternoon. Going into the game, the Belgian had enjoyed an impressive start to the season, where he has, crucially, stayed fit and available, but his display at Stamford Bridge over the weekend was his best of the campaign to date. It was arguably his best performance since moving to west London more than three years ago.