Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso is hot property going into the summer, and reportedly has a "clear preference" between Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The two European giants are in the market for a new manager, albeit in entirely different circumstances. Liverpool are looking for a successor to Jurgen Klopp after the legendary German coach announced he would be stepping down after nine trophy-laden seasons. Bayern, meanwhile, will put an end to a tumultuous period with Thomas Tuchel at the helm, who will part ways with Die Roten after a miserable season - largely thanks to Alonso's high-flying Leverkusen.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
With Liverpool and Bayern seemingly in a straight shoot-out for Alonso's signature, Foot Mercato reports that the Spaniard has a "clear preference" on his next destination. The French outlet writes that Alonso would lean towards a return to Anfield as he is reportedly keen to take on the "immense challenge" of succeeding Klopp. The young crop of stars he would inherit have already shown their worth, after many of them helped beat a near-full-strength Chelsea side in the Carabao Cup on Sunday.
DID YOU KNOW?
Stability is also thought to be a factor in Alonso's preference. Liverpool would offer the Spaniard greater structure than Bayern, who have been in disarray since before Tuchel took over. Former boss Julian Nagelsmann clashed with key figures such as Manuel Neuer, while Sadio Mane was involved in a physical altercation with Leroy Sane during Nagelsmann's tenure. A change in board members has prompted no upturn in approach, either, as evidenced by the last-minute fumbling of Joao Palhinha's deal from Fulham in the summer.
WHAT NEXT FOR ALONSO?
While Liverpool may present a more attractive prospect than Bayern, succeeding Klopp will be no mean feat. The legendary German coach is still on course for an unprecedented quadruple this term, and labelled Sunday's victory at Wembley his "most special trophy".
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