Bayern Munich appear to be leading the race to secure Xabi Alonso as their new head coach, with the club confident about securing his services should he decide to part ways with Bayer Leverkusen this summer, according to The Telegraph.
While Leverkusen have refrained from commenting on claims suggesting they have given permission for Alonso to engage in talks with Bayern, preliminary discussions have reportedly taken place between the club’s representatives and the 42-year-old.
Despite Bayern’s current advantage, it does not rule out Liverpool from the race to appoint Alonso.
However, Liverpool’s pursuit of Jurgen Klopp’s successor is further complicated by their ongoing process of appointing a new sporting director.
Bayern have moved swiftly to outpace Liverpool, aiming to convince Alonso to take over from Thomas Tuchel at the end of this campaign.
The former Bayern and Liverpool midfielder is the top choice for Bayern, unanimously backed by the club’s hierarchy.
The speculation surrounding Alonso’s future has understandably caused frustration at Leverkusen, who currently lead Bayern by 10 points in the Bundesliga. Leverkusen, despite their 120-year history, have never won the league title.
The Telegraph suggests that Alonso’s departure this summer is not yet certain.
Although he is under contract until June 2026, his initial plan was to stay and guide Leverkusen into the Champions League, emphasising his determination to remain focused on the club for the current season.
Liverpool have been well aware of Bayern’s interest in Xabi Alonso, and it has been evident for some time that Tuchel’s continuation beyond the current campaign was unlikely.
This awareness adds to the complexity of Liverpool’s search for Jurgen Klopp’s successor as they navigate through the intricate landscape of managerial changes and potential appointments in the football world.
In the event that Liverpool face challenges in convincing Alonso to join them, the Reds have identified Julian Nagelsmann and Ruben Amorim as potential alternatives.
Amorim has just two more years remaining on his deal with Sporting Lisbon.
However, there is a growing expectation that he might seek a new challenge at the end of this season, expressing a keen interest in managing in the Premier League.
The Portuguese coach is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young talents in Europe, and his potential move to the Premier League has garnered attention.
Nagelsmann will be out of contract with the German Football Federation after the upcoming European Championships this summer.
Although he won’t be immediately available following Germany’s involvement in the tournament, Nagelsmann is anticipated to make a return to club management in the near future.
The 36-year-old’s youth and impressive coaching track record have positioned him as a highly sought-after figure in the football world.
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