(Credit: Imago)

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Sat 21 March 2026 12:25, UK

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Xabi Alonso is the leading candidate to be the next Liverpool manager if Arne Slot is relieved of his duties.

Slot’s future is in doubt as it stands amid Liverpool’s struggle to find form over the last few months.

The Reds’ midweek win over Galatasaray relieved a lot of pressure on the Dutchman, but he could still be dismissed soon if they are unable to seal Champions League qualification.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Liverpool hero Alonso is in line to get the job next, despite his failed stint as Real Madrid boss.

Liverpool’s next manager could well be named in the coming months, but Slot remains in charge for now and is not set to be sacked imminently.

Xabi Alonso is highly regarded at Liverpool

Alonso played 210 times for Liverpool between 2004 and 2009, and has carved out a career as a coach and manager since his retirement in 2017.

The Spaniard led Bayer Leverkusen to a historic treble in the 2023-24 campaign, but his time at Real Madrid did not go to plan as he was sacked after just seven months in the role in January.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “If Liverpool do end up dispensing of the services of Arne Slot, I think there’ll be a number of names that the club are looking at.

“Obviously, Xabi Alonso is a standout candidate due to his links with Liverpool, and he’s out of work as well.

“It does seem, if Slot was to go, Alonso would be the obvious fit.”

Liverpool lining up Eduardo Camavinga move for the summer

Liverpool made numerous big-money signings last summer, but those players signed have struggled to make much of an impact so far this season.

They are not set to spend quite as much ahead of next season, but are eyeing several midfielders that they could add to their ranks soon.

Sources have told Football Insider that Liverpool are interested in Real Madrid’s Camavinga, with the Spanish giants willing to listen to offers in excess of £43million for his services.

The Frenchman has played 33 times for Madrid this season, but has only started 12 La Liga games and could seek an exit for the guarantee of more game time.