Liverpool make approach for Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso to replace Jurgen Klopp – Paper Round

Liverpool have made an approach for Xabi Alonso, claims a report.

Alonso, who has guided the unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen to the top of the Bundesliga table, is the bookmakers’ strong favourite to take over at Anfield when Jurgen Klopp steps down at the end of the season.

And now the Mirror claims The Reds have made their move for the 42-year-old.

“German outlet Bild are now claim that Liverpool have made an approach for Alonso. It’s outlined that the Reds have made contact with his agent, Inaki Ibanez, in an attempt to bring him back to Anfield.

“But while Alonso is the red-hot favourite to succeed Klopp, the same report outlines that Leverkusen are relaxed about the situation. They expected interest in Alonso given the fine job he has done at the club and there is hope internally that he will choose to stay.

“Intriguingly, another of Alonso’s former clubs in Bayern Munich are also lurking in the background. Leverkusen’s title rivals have already confirmed they will part company with Thomas Tuchel at the end of the campaign and Alonso is their No.1 target.

“With Leverkusen looking a safe bet for Champions League football next term, there is a chance Alonso could decide to snub both clubs and stay put. However, a return to Liverpool has always been part of his long-term plan.”

Manchester United and a “number” of other top clubs are on “high alert” after Roony Bardghji reportedly made a decision not to sign a new contract with Copenhagen.

Eighteen-year-old Roony famously scored an 87th minute winner for the Danish side in a 4-3 victory over United in the UEFA Champions League earlier this season.

The forward has scored 10 goals in 29 appearances so far this term.

“Roony Bardghji, 18, was already catching the eye with his performances for Copenhagen this season.

“Bardghji is widely considered as one of the best young talents in Europe and will see his current deal at Copenhagen expire in December of next year.

“But according to Fabrizio Romano, the Swedish winger has no intention to sign a new long-term contract with his current club.

“It’s said that a number of top clubs are monitoring the situation with the youngster seeing his game time drop off a cliff since the turn of the year.

“Bardghji featured in every single Danish Superliga game of the season for Copenhagen before the new year but is yet to grace the pitch in any competition in 2024.

“United, the team he put to the sword, are one club who have a keen interest in the Swedish U21 international.

“The Red Devils have sent scouts to watch Bardghji this season, but will face competition for his signature.

“Reports have suggested that Premier League rivals Chelsea and Newcastle are also interested in the young gun.

“While Spanish outlet Sport claim that European giants Barcelona and Bayern Munich are keeping a keen eye on Bardghji’s situation.

“They claim Copenhagen may be forced to sell their academy graduate if his contract situation is not resolved by the end of the season.”

Jorginho’s rich vein of form is set to land him a new contract at Arsenal, according to the Evening Standard.

Jorginho, whose deal at the Emirates expires at the end of the season, has played an important role in midfield as Arsenal bid to win the Premier League title.

“The midfielder is in the final few months of his current deal, although there is the option to extend by a further year.

“The Gunners are now set to open talks with the Italian over fresh terms as opposed to just taking up the option to extend his current contract.”

Everton are reportedly considering offering a new deal to Dele Alli.

The former Tottenham star has not made a competitive appearance since playing for Besiktas in February 2023, where he was on loan from The Toffees.

“According to The Athletic, Everton are still open to handing Dele a new contract in a bid to help him reignite his career.

“However, the Toffees will have to hold talks with Tottenham first.

“Everton did not have to pay an immediate fee after agreeing to sign the ex-England star, but they will have to fork out £10million when he reaches 20 appearances.

“That fee could prove to be too much for the cash-strapped Toffees this season.”