Sources: Liverpool approach Xabi Alonso – he’s the number one choice
Liverpool are planning an approach for Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso after Jurgen Klopp announced his shock departure, sources have told Football Insider.
Klopp, 56, will depart Anfield at the end of the 2023-24 campaign after revealing he is “running out of energy”.
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Alonso is the “number one choice” to succeed the legendary German in the Liverpool hot seat.
It is believed the Merseysiders are planning an approach for the Spaniard to ascertain his interest in taking the job after having two months to do their analysis on candidates.
Alonso’s current contract at Leverkusen is set to run until June 2026 following his appointment in October 2022.
However, Football Insider revealed on Saturday (27 January) that he has a clause inserted in his contract that would allow him to leave and become Liverpool’s next boss.
The former Reds, Real Sociedad, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder is understood to have a clause allowing him to take the reins at any of his old clubs.
Alonso spent five years at Liverpool as a player, making 210 appearances while winning the FA Cup and Champions League.
The 42-year-old’s Leverkusen side sit top of the Bundesliga table after 18 games played and are unbeaten with 15 wins and three draws.
Klopp will leave Liverpool as a legend after winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and more in nine years at the helm.
This season, the Merseysiders sit top of the league once again and face Chelsea in the League Cup final next month.
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