Liverpool dealt blow as Bayern boss reveals Xabi Alonso's intentions

James Shearman

• Updated: 28 Mar 2024 22:16 GMT
• 3 min read

Liverpool have been dealt a blow in their search for Jurgen Klopp's successor, as Xabi Alonso looks set to stay at Bayer Leverkusen.

Alonso emerged as the Reds' top managerial target after Klopp announced that he would be leaving Anfield this summer.

It was assumed that the Spaniard would leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season, and that he would then choose between Liverpool and Bayern Munich.

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However, it now appears that he will continue at Leverkusen, who he is currently leading towards their first Bundesliga title in 13 years.

That is because Bayern's honorary president, Uli Hoeness, has revealed that it will be 'probably impossible' to lure Alonso away from his existing job.

"Very difficult, not to say probably impossible. Imagine that, the way I got to know him and appreciate him, he would be more inclined to carry on because he doesn't want to leave [Leverkusen] behind now," Hoeness told BR24Sport.

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“He is now training at a club that is currently in the process of becoming German champions. He has a lot to thank this club for, and so do [Leverkusen].

"If he had had two or three years more success, it would probably be easier to get him out there. We would like to sign him. If that doesn't work, it will be the task of the sporting management to look for and find alternatives."

Liverpool to look elsewhere

According to The Times, Liverpool are already focusing on other targets than Alonso.

The report states that Sporting's Ruben Amorim ranks high on the club's shortlist, while they are also keen on Brighton's Roberto De Zerbi.

Both managers are inexperienced at the highest level, having not managed one of Europe's top teams, though they are certainly deserving of an opportunity at a club like Liverpool.

Alternatively, the Reds could decide to hand over the reigns to Pepijn Lijnders - Klopp's assistant.