Liverpool have made contact with Andoni Iraola about becoming their next manager after the shock decision to part company with Arne Slot.
The Reds confirmed the decision to sack Slot on Saturday afternoon, with the process to appoint a replacement already underway.
In a statement, Liverpool said: "That this was a difficult decision for us to make as a club goes without saying. The contribution Arne has made to Liverpool FC in the time that he has been with us has been significant, meaningful and – most importantly of all to supporters and ourselves – successful.
Liverpool owners claim a "change of direction" is required
Arne Slot
"We have collectively come to the conclusion that change is necessary in order for the club to keep moving forward. Again, it must be stressed that this is not a decision which has been reached lightly, anything but.
"The conclusion we have come to is built on a belief that the team’s trajectory is best addressed through a change of direction. That does not diminish the work Arne has done here, or the respect we have for him. Nor is it a reflection of his talents. Rather, it is indicative of the need for a different approach."
A number of high-profile managers are out of work this summer and Iraola is one of those, with talks already taking place between Liverpool and the Spaniard about taking over at Anfield.
Iraola, who has been described as "special" by Pep Guardiola, leaves Bournemouth this summer, having guided the Cherries to the UEFA Europa League with a sixth-placed finish this season, ending the season on an 18-game unbeaten streak.
GIVEMESPORT understands that Iraola is a "standout candidate" to take the reins at Anfield, with Liverpool journalist Chris Royce going further in stating that talks have already taken place.
Andoni Iraola salutes the Bournemouth fans
Andoni Iraola salutes the Bournemouth fans
Writing on his official X account, Royce called the sacking of Slot, despite owners Fenway Sports Group appearing to back their manager, and said on Thursday: "The Liverpool board have made contact with Andoni Iraola's representatives in the past 48 hours in a bid to appoint the Spaniard as head coach.
"Iraola is highly sought after by clubs in Italy, Germany and England, but it is believed that Liverpool is Iraola's preferred choice."
Iraola has been linked with a number of jobs since confirming that he would be leaving the Vitality Stadium, with Crystal Palace seen as a potential destination if he were to stay in England. The roles at AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen have also been touted, but it could be Anfield that is his next home.
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