Xabi Alonso responds to Liverpool links as Bayer Leverkusen boss refuses to rule out Anfield return to succeed Jurgen Klopp

The German made a shock announcement on Friday that he will be stepping down from his position at the end of the season, which has forced the Reds board to hunt for a fresh face to lead the club. Alonso has been regarded as the strongest candidate to replace Klopp given his successes with Bayer Leverkusen this term. The Basque was a crucial figure in Liverpool's transformation in the mid-2000s and was also the midfield linchpin of Rafael Benitez's side that conquered Europe on an unforgettable night in Istanbul in 2005.

When Alonso was asked if he could rule out becoming the next Liverpool manager, he said: "That's a direct question! I don't have a direct answer. I'm happy here right now, that's for sure, and only thinking about Leverkusen."

On the shock of Klopp's departure, he added: "I was surprised by Jurgen's news. I have huge respect for Jurgen and Liverpool. At the moment I am really happy here and enjoying my work. Each day and game is a challenge. We are on an intense and beautiful journey here at Leverkusen."

Alonso is on a beautiful journey with the German outfit as they have been playing exceptional football and are four points clear of Bayern Munich in the title race after 18 matches. They remain unbeaten in the league and are still alive and kicking in the DFB-Pokal. On the continental stage, Leverkusen topped their Europa League group maintaining a perfect win record.

Klopp was the last manager to deny Bayern Munich the Bundesliga title back in 2012 when he was still with Borussia Dortmund. Alonso is on course to take up Klopp's mantle and break the Bavarian dominance once again after over a decade.

Alonso remains the favourite to replace Klopp but might be lured away by Real Madrid if Carlo Ancelotti is asked to leave Santiago Bernabeu. Although the Italian penned an extension to shut down exit talks, things may change quickly in the Spanish capital if Los Blancos end up without any silverware come May.