Liverpool lead Xabi Alonso chase despite £20M salary offer from Bayern Munich

Liverpool are reportedly one step ahead of Bayern Munich in the race to sign Xabi Alonso as the manager to replace Jurgen Klopp at the end of the season.

The German manager will take his leave when the campaign comes to a close and FSG are hard at work to replace the enigmatic leader.

Since the news broke of his decision to leave, Alonso has been the standout favourite to replace him with it now being reported in Germany that Liverpool are the strongest placed side to land him.

Liverpool one step ahead of Bayern Munich in Xabi Alonso pursuit

Liverpool and Bayern Munich have set their sights on securing the services of Spanish manager Xabi Alonso from Bayer Leverkusen during the upcoming summer transfer window.

Recent speculation suggests that Bayern Munich are willing to significantly increase Alonso's annual salary, potentially quadrupling his current £5 million per year salary to £20 million, according to the Sunday People, in an effort to lure him to the Allianz Arena.

Liverpool appear to be taking proactive steps in their pursuit of Alonso. According to recent reports, the club has already reached out to his agent, Inaki Ibanez, signaling their intent to secure his signature.

Deutsche Welle, citing German media sources, has refuted claims of any formal advances from Bayern Munich for the 42-year-old manager. Despite rumours indicating Alonso's preference for Bayern and a reported release clause of approximately 15 million euros in his contract, Leverkusen has clarified that there have been no discussions between Alonso and their rivals.

Interestingly, when Liverpool contacted Alonso's representative, the communication was promptly relayed to Leverkusen's management, a step that reportedly did not occur in the alleged negotiations with Bayern Munich.

Alonso has enjoyed a successful tenure at the Bay Arena, with his Leverkusen side being the only unbeaten team across all UEFA top-tier leagues this season.

Given his stellar track record and iconic status at Liverpool, many view him as the ideal candidate to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Anfield.