Liverpool are expected to challenge Manchester City for Xabi Alonso if they decide to sack Arne Slot at the end of the season, according to The Telegraph reporter Matt Law.
The usually reliable journalist says the Spaniard is on City’s wishlist to replace Pep Guardiola, but the Reds could get involved if Slot doesn’t secure a Champions League place, as well as failing to reach the latter stages of this year’s tournament:
“Alonso, who was sacked by Real Madrid in January, is also thought to be a coach City will carefully consider despite his association with rivals Liverpool.”
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“Liverpool will almost certainly move for Alonso, who played for the club for five years, if they are forced into a managerial change with Arne Slot under pressure to secure Champions League qualification and go far in this season’s competition.”
Slot has the full backing of the Liverpool board
There is a considerable section of supporters who have been calling for the Dutchman to go for several weeks, but he won’t be leaving Anfield unless it becomes clear that a top 5 finish is not on the cards.
At the moment, the Reds are sitting just a point behind Chelsea in fifth, so there is next to no chance that the board would even consider sacking him at this stage.
Alonso will be in demand
Man City’s interest in the former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid manager is concerning for those hoping that he could succeed Slot at Liverpool.
While there is no guarantee that current boss Pep Guardiola will leave at the end of the season, many feel it is a growing possibility.
Trusted sources have confirmed that Enzo Maresca spoke to City about replacing Guardiola on no less than three occasions at the end of last year. The Italian is said to be on a three-man shortlist, along with Alonso and Como boss Cesc Fabregas.
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