In the wake of Jurgen Klopp's impending departure, Liverpool are actively seeking a new manager to lead the team.
Recent reports have emerged indicating that the club's search has led them to talks with Xabi Alonso, the current manager of Bayer Leverkusen, as a potential candidate.
However, securing Alonso's services is expected to come with a significant financial commitment. Talks are also underway with Leverkusen and it seems Liverpool have learnt how much they will need to pay to break his contract with the Bundesliga outfit.
According to the Express, Liverpool will be required to pay a substantial compensation fee to Bayer Leverkusen if they wish to appoint Alonso. The fee, set at £25.6 million, is necessary to terminate Alonso's existing contract with the German club.
This revelation underlines how costly the managerial transition Liverpool are embarking on is, as they look to fill the void left by Klopp's departure.
Alonso, who has a beautiful history with Liverpool as a player, is the top candidate being considered for the managerial position.
His ties to the club and experience in top-flight European football make him an attractive option for the Reds. However, the financial implications of prying him away from Leverkusen are significant.
The search for Klopp's successor comes at a critical time for Liverpool, as the club aims to maintain its competitive edge both domestically and in European competitions. They are doing this with planned contract talks with Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Klopp's tenure has been marked by significant success, including Premier League and Champions League triumphs, setting a high bar for his successor.