If Xabi Alonso plan fails, Liverpool can trigger manager's £12.8m exit clause

Liverpool FC are reportedly considering a strategic move to secure the services of Brighton & Hove Albion's manager, Roberto De Zerbi, amidst their quest for Jurgen Klopp's successor.

The Italian tactician, whose commendable work with the Seagulls has not gone unnoticed, finds himself somewhere near the center of a managerial tug-of-war.

Xabi Alonso is at the centre of Liverpool's plans to hire a new manager and after positive talks and an approach to Bayer Leverkusen, the Spanish coach is set for an interview with FSG.

Who is De Zerbi?

De Zerbi, in his inaugural season with Brighton, led the team to an impressive 6th place finish in the Premier League, narrowly trailing Liverpool by just five points. T

his achievement was significantly highlighted as Brighton qualified for European competition for the first time in their history, marking a monumental milestone for the club.

The spotlight on De Zerbi intensified following Brighton's historic Europa League campaign, where they recently faced AS Roma in the Round of 16.

Despite a challenging match that concluded in a 4-0 defeat to the Giallorossi, De Zerbi's strategic acumen and leadership have continued to draw interest from elite clubs across Europe.

Liverpool learn how much Roberto De Zerbi's release clause in Brighton contract is worth

Reports emerging from Italy, particularly from La Gazzetta Dello Sport, via Paisley Gates, suggest that Liverpool, alongside Manchester United, Chelsea, and Barcelona, are keen admirers of the 44-year-old manager.

Brighton has reportedly set a release clause of €15 million (£12.8M) in De Zerbi's contract, a figure clubs would need to meet to secure his services come summer.

When pressed about the possibility of a return to Italy before the clash with Roma, De Zerbi expressed contentment with his current role at Brighton, stating he is happy with where he is at the moment.

He said: “It’s not true that I don’t think about it. But, usually, I do what makes me happy and right now, that’s to be where I am.

“One day, I will come back to Italy. I don’t know when but when I made the choice to go to Shakhtar I did it because I wanted to find a way outside Italy. Without going into too many details, there were some things in Italy I didn’t like. I decided to do something else.

“I don’t see myself as a genius. I don’t think I’m better than others but I’m not scared to work hard and I don’t lack courage. I don’t think of negative consequences. What probably makes a difference is my passion for football."

His response, however, has not quelled the speculation surrounding his future, with Liverpool seemingly in a prime position to make a move.