Interview next, positive Liverpool talks see FSG arrange meeting with £26M manager

Liverpool secured a last-minute victory against Nottingham Forest to maintain their top spot in the Premier League but off the pitch, they continue their work to appoint a successor to Jurgen Klopp.

The German will vacate his role as manager when the 2023/24 season ends and Xabi Alonso is the favourite to succeed him.

Meanwhile, Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen triumphed over Koln, extending their lead over reigning German champions Bayern Munich to 10 points.

He has been extremely impressive this season and the manner in which he is bringing Bayern's period of dominance to end speaks volumes about why Liverpool want him.

As per a Sunday report from The People Liverpool have initiated discussions with Alonso's agent.

The Reds are reportedly gearing up for a formal interview with Alonso, who currently earns around £5 million per year. It will cost around £26 million to break the manager's contract with Leverkusen.

There are suggestions that Liverpool are eyeing Michael Edwards for the role, while Bayern Munich are also interested in Alonso to replace Thomas Tuchel at the Allianz Arena. Bayer Leverkusen, however, are keen to retain Alonso for at least another season.

In case Alonso doesn't join Liverpool, the club is exploring alternative options, with Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim emerging as a contender.

Liverpool scouts recently attended a match in Lisbon to watch Sporting CP's victory over Benfica in the Taca de Portugal semi-finals.

Sporting CP, led by Amorim, currently lead the Primeira Liga and is in strong form with a game in hand.