Bayer Leverkusen coach Alonso emerges as the leading candidate to step into Jürgen Klopp’s shoes at Anfield this summer.
Xabi Alonso stands as the prime contender to take over the managerial seat at Liverpool following Klopp’s announcement that the ongoing season will mark his farewell at Anfield.
German Media Sport Bild now delving into the prospective players Alonso might bring along if he assumes Klopp’s role.
Throughout this season, Alonso has guided Bayer Leverkusen to the summit of the Bundesliga, showcasing a brand of dynamic, attacking football with a meticulously trained squad.
Even if Leverkusen fall short of breaking Bayern Munich’s 11-year dominance in German football, Alonso is expected to attract numerous offers should he opt to part ways at the season’s conclusion.
Assuming the Liverpool managerial position, Alonso would confront the challenging task of calming the Reds fanbase, still reeling from Klopp’s January announcement and grappling with rumors hinting at possible exits for Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah in tow with Klopp’s departure.
In line with a report from German outlet SportBild, should Fernando Alonso assume the role of Liverpool’s next manager, his priority would be reinforcing the team with a defender and a forward player. His inclination is to secure trusted players from Bayer Leverkusen for these positions.
As per SportBild’s information, Alonso expresses a strong interest in bringing 27-year-old defender Jonathan Tah to Liverpool, aiming to enhance the team’s defensive capabilities. Additionally, he is eyeing 20-year-old talent Florian Wirtz to bolster the Reds’ attacking prowess.
Jonathan Tah has played a pivotal role in Bayer Leverkusen’s defense, contributing to the team’s status as the Bundesliga side with the fewest goals conceded this season.
The Germany international is praised for his composed leadership, aggressive defending, and ability to build attacks with ball composure. Notably, it is speculated that Tah could be attainable for a relatively modest fee of €18 million, facilitated by a clause in his contract.
The potential transition to a back-three formation for Liverpool next season could be facilitated by the recent success of Bayer Leverkusen, where this tactical setup has served as the bedrock for their title pursuit.
Florian Wirtz, another Germany international, stands out as one of the most promising attacking talents in Europe. In the Bundesliga, he currently holds a top-three ranking for successful dribbles, sprints, and key passes this season.
Despite not reaching the age of 21 until May, the playmaker boasts an impressive record of 12 goal involvements in 19 Bundesliga appearances, making him a strong contender for the coveted title of player of the season.
Speculation surrounds Wirtz’s future, with suggestions that his next move might be contingent on the coaching status of Leverkusen’s manager, Xabi Alonso, in the upcoming season.
As Liverpool anticipate a possible departure of Mohamed Salah to the Saudi Pro League in the future, Florian Wirtz could be a promising candidate for a long-term replacement. Transfermarkt currently values Wirtz at €100 million.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool Urged to Sign 25-year-old Star Instead of Jarrod Bowen as Mo Salah Replacement