Liverpool FC have initiated direct negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen to secure the services of Xabi Alonso, according to reputable sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
Bayern Munich are in competition for his services have the latest reports have suggested that the Spaniard prefers a move to Anfield over the Allianz Arena.
His profile is perfect as far as Jurgen Klopp's heir to the Liverpool throne is concerned.
According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Liverpool are now in direct contact with Bayer Leverkusen chiefs as negotiations over a move to bring Xabi Alonso to Merseyside get underway.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich are putting pressure on Leverkusen to get Alonso but this is seen as an attempt to destabilise the Bundesliga leaders. Alonso considers their actions as disrespectful.
On the other hand, Liverpool have acted professionally and with respect, acting with clear intentions and transparency. The Reds are also top of their own league and perhaps this has given them the perspective needed to understand why mid-season calls to hire your manager might not be appreciated.
Tavolieri even suggests Bayern's unprofessional and desperate attempts to sign Alonso and disrupt Leverkusen is "maybe" one of the reasons why he wants to join Liverpool instead.
That said, there are many reasons why Alonso would want to be the next Liverpool manager.
Jurgen Klopp is leaving the club in a wonderful position primed for more success long after he leaves. It has been a masterclass on how to grow and develop a football club.
Granted it took place over nine years and required trust from the Liverpool owners but Klopp has overdelivered every single season.
Alonso has huge shoes to fill but Liverpool are in such a strong position in every department that the Spaniard will have an unprecedented level of support given the way Klopp has set the club up to run.
Scary but exciting times ahead for LFC...