Liverpool are working around the clock to convince Xabi Alonso to join them as Arne Slot's replacement, according to reports in Spain.
While the Reds have scored 10 goals in their last two games in convincing wins against Qarabag in the Champions League and Newcastle United in the Premier League, it has been an underwhelming season for the reigning Premier League champions.
Arne Slot's men lie 14 points behind leaders Arsenal with 14 matches left to play, and barring an incredible set of results the Dutchman looks set to lose his title crown.
While the Reds will look for success in the Champions League and the FA Cup instead, Liverpool's owners FSG are already considering making a change ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
Xabi Alonso is Liverpool's 'Top Target'
Xabi Alonso
According to Fichajes, two of the best Premier League clubs are fighting to appoint Alonso as they consider making a managerial change in 2026.
The report says that both Liverpool and Manchester City have made the newly-available free agent their top target should there be a changing of the guard at the end of the season, with Slot's job hanging by a thread as June approaches.
The Merseyside outfit are said to be working constantly to convince their former player to return to Anfield, after he revolutionised the Bundesliga with his winning mentality and tactical approach.
The Spanish manager - described as 'one of the best in the world' by Carlo Ancelotti - led Bayer Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title in 2024, while they went 51 matches - a European record - unbeaten across the season before being beaten by Atalanta in the Europa League final.
That success led to a move to Real Madrid, where he was sacked after less than eight months in charge after being beaten 3-2 in the Spanish Super Cup Final against Barcelona, with the club lying four points adrift of the Catalan giants in La Liga.
Nevertheless, Alonso is one of the hottest free agents on the market and with the pressure on Slot reaching a 'critical' level, they are ready to accelerate a move for a manager who was so popular during his playing days at Anfield.
Who Else Could Liverpool Target?
jurgen klopp
While Alonso seems to be the overwhelming number one target for Liverpool, they may be forced to look elsewhere should Man City get Alonso after Pep Guardiola's recommendation.
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique is one of the favourites with the bookies, along with Oliver Glasner after he announced he will be leaving Crystal Palace at the end of the season.
One that Liverpool fans would love is the return to Anfield of Jurgen Klopp, who is likely to be mentioned at the very least if Slot goes.
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