'Xabi Alonso is something special' - Alex Grimaldo addresses Bayer Leverkusen coach's future amid Liverpool and Bayern Munich links

Alonso's tenure at Bayer Leverkusen has been nothing short of remarkable, with the Spanish tactician orchestrating Leverkusen's ascent to the summit of the Bundesliga - a feat made even more impressive by the club's commanding 10-point lead over perennial contenders Bayern Munich. Hence there is no shortage of offers for the Spaniard with the Reds and Bayern chasing him to replace their existing managers; Jurgen Klopp & Thomas Tuchel respectively.

Liverpool's sporting director Michael Edwards is working tirelessly behind the scenes to secure Alonso's services with negotiations said to be underway between the parties involved. While other managerial candidates such as Brighton's Roberto De Zerbi and Lens boss Franck Haise have been linked with the role, Alonso has emerged as the frontrunner owing to his affinity with Liverpool and his sterling managerial stint at Leverkusen.

Grimaldo, keen on retaining Alonso's guidance, voiced his admiration for the esteemed coach and highlighted Alonso's distinctive coaching style and ability to inspire player growth.

"I had very good coaches throughout my career, both at Barcelona and at Benfica. But Xabi is something special. There are not many coaches like him in the world of football," he told Bild.

When pressed about the chances of winning the Bundesliga, Grimaldo said: "The Bundesliga would be special. To come here and win a title in my first year that Bayer Leverkusen has never won before would be to make history. This is something that the whole team and I also want to achieve. And I think we are on the right track.”

Leverkusen remain resolute in their desire to retain Alonso's services and has refuted claims of a release clause in Alonso's contract. They remain unbeaten in all competitions and can potentially win a treble for the first time since the 2001-02 season.