Liverpool’s attempts to sign Xabi Alonso as a manager have suffered a significant setback. In an unexpected turn of events, the Spanish specialist is now expected to remain in Leverkusen for at least another season. Alonso has been at the top of Liverpool’s wish list for Klopp’s successor, but the club prefers to have a clear plan for the summer preparation period, and the uncertainty surrounding the Reds’ former midfielder’s future has cooled their interest, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.
🚨🇪🇸 Liverpool won’t wait anymore for Xabi Alonso — as Ruben Amorim will be an option already discussed internally, not the only one.
Bayern are prepared to wait until Xabi make official decision, but he’s expected to stay at Leverkusen until June 2025… with release clause. pic.twitter.com/3ZychLFUYe
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 28, 2024
The Anfield club is now expected to shift its focus to Sporting Lisbon’s head coach, Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese manager has guided the Lions to a second consecutive quarter-final appearance in Europe and to the top of the standings in Liga Portugal, holding a one-point advantage over Benfica with a game in hand. His current deal expires in 2026, but there are rumours circulating that there is a €30 million release clause inserted into Amorim’s contract with Sporting. This clause might prove to be a stumbling block for many parties interested in acquiring the 39-year-old Portuguese specialist, including Liverpool.