Liverpool make their move! Reds approach Xabi Alonso's agent over replacing Jurgen Klopp at Anfield - but Bayer Leverkusen remain calm

Posted Thursday, February 29, 2024 by Goal.com

Liverpool have approached the agent of Xabi Alonso to discuss the prospect of the Bayer Leverkusen boss replacing Jurgen Klopp at Anfield this summer.

WHAT HAPPENED?
The Reds have made a request to Inaki Ibanez, Alonso's representative, according to Sport Bild. The Spanish coach's current side have already been informed of the approach and the top figures at the BayArena are confident the former midfielder will turn down his ex-club in favour of staying at Leverkusen.

THE BIGGER PICTURE
Alonso was appointed Leverkusen head coach in October 2022, when they were second-bottom of the table after eight matches, and guided them to a sixth-place finish in the Bundesliga. This season, they are the shock, unbeaten leaders in the Bundesliga, holding a eight-point advantage over reigning champions Bayern.

DID YOU KNOW?
Liverpool are not the only contenders to lure Alonso away from Leverkusen this summer, as German rivals Bayern have also been linked with a move for their former player as Thomas Tuchel will depart at the end of the season. Leverkusen, however, will hope to hold onto Alonso until the end of his contract, which expires in 2026.

WHAT NEXT FOR ALONSO?
Before he considers a possible summer departure from Leverkusen, Alonso will hope his team can boost their hopes of winning their first ever Bundesliga title by beating Koln on Sunday. They will then turn their attention to their Europa League tie against Qarabag.