"Sorting details": Liverpool inching closer to agreement with "next stage of talks" imminent

Liverpool were surprisingly linked with Niko Kovac this week but it appears to be nothing more than a false story.

The 52-year-old will not be joining the Reds, according to journalist Ben Jacobs, who admits he's a bit surprised by the Kovac links as Liverpool are pushing ahead with plans to sign Ruben Amorim.

The Sporting Lisbon coach could become the next Liverpool manager in the summer after Jurgen Klopp leaves his post when the season ends.

Liverpool inching closer to agreement with Ruben Amorim

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones said: “The stories about Kovac seemed a little odd because, at the moment, there is no sign or reason as to why Liverpool would actually need a back-up plan."

Jacobs continued: “I do think there is confidence in finding an agreement over making Amorim their manager, but there has always been an acceptance that it would not be sorted out fast.

“As far as I am aware, nothing has gone wrong with early contacts and this is a case of sorting details around him becoming the next manager.

“The fact he is keen on moving to Liverpool as his next step is key and, while there is no actual agreement yet reached, this will soon move on to the next stage of talks when Liverpool’s contact with Sporting becomes active.”

Liverpool making good progress in Amorim talks

I think the most important snippet from Jacobs' quotes was when he said they "will soon move on to the next stage of talks" at which point Sporting and Liverpool will discuss how much the Reds will pay, which staff Amorim will take with him and so on.

While there can be no rushing this sort of thing, it needs to be wrapped up relatively soon if Liverpool are to announce Amorim's arrival at the same time that Jurgen Klopp leaves.

As things stand, it looks quite likely that the 39-year-old former footballer will become the 22nd manager of Liverpool FC.