Liverpool 'draw up three-man list of Xabi Alonso alternatives'

By Ben Sully | 10 March 2024

Liverpool 'draw up three-man list of Alonso alternatives'

Liverpool reportedly draw up a three-man shortlist of alternative options to Xabi Alonso as they continue their search for Jurgen Klopp's replacement.

Liverpool have reportedly identified three alternatives to Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso as they continue their search for Jurgen Klopp's successor.

Klopp announced in January that he will call time on his successful stay as Liverpool manager at the end of the current campaign.

Alonso has emerged as a frontrunner to replace Klopp, having impressed during his time in charge of German club Leverkusen.

Die Werkself, who are yet to lose a competitive game this season, are top of the league table and still competing in the DFB-Pokal and the Europa League.

However, Liverpool face competition from reigning German champions Bayern Munich, who have allegedly held talks about replacing Thomas Tuchel ahead of the 2024-25 season.

Brighton & Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi before the match on March 7, 2024 © Reuters

While Alonso may be viewed as Liverpool's top target, Football Insider are reporting that Liverpool have identified three potential alternatives to the Leverkusen head coach.

Ruben Amorim is believed to be among those under consideration by the Liverpool hierarchy after enjoying a successful period as Sporting Lisbon boss.

The 39-year-old has won four trophies during his time with the Portuguese giants, and he has led them to the top of the Primeira Liga table.

Sporting are also hoping to secure their place in the quarter-final of the Europa League, with their tie with Atalanta all square ahead of Thursday's second leg.

Barcelona are believed to be considering Amorim as a replacement for Xavi, while he also has emerged as a target for Chelsea.

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann on November 18, 2023 © Reuters

Liverpool have pinpointed Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Roberto De Zerbi as another alternative option to Alonso after impressing during his time on the South coast.

However, should the Reds decide to move for De Zerbi, they could face competition from Manchester United, who have also been linked with the Italian coach.

Meanwhile, Julian Nagelsmann is also being considered by Liverpool, with the 36-year-old only contracted with the Germany national team until after Euro 2024.

Nagelsmann's signature is expected to be highly sought after, amid interest from the likes of Barcelona and Newcastle United.