Xabi Alonso to Liverpool off?! Reds unlikely to pursue ex-midfielder this summer, with Bayern Munich also out of the running, as Spaniard eyes Bayer Leverkusen stay

The Daily Telegraph reports that Liverpool are unlikely to feature Alonso on their final shortlist to replace the outgoing Klopp as they believe he is minded to stay at Bayer Leverkusen instead of leaving. He has also been heavily linked with Bayern Munich given that Thomas Tuchel is also departing this summer, but honorary president Uli Hoeness said on Thursday that he felt a move to appoint Alonso is "probably impossible" this summer.

Alonso has done exceptional work this season and Leverkusen are on the verge of a first ever Bundesliga title. They are still unbeaten this term and are 10 points clear of Bayern in second, and Alonso is said to be keen to continue his work at the club.

Liverpool are now said to be considering both Ruben Amorim, the Sporting CP coach, and Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi as possible alternatives to Alonso. Amorim, though, would be a hugely expensive acquisition; he has a release clause of £17 million ($21m) in his contract, and is also on the verge of winning the league title in Portugal. De Zerbi has endured a difficult season with Brighton as they are currently eighth in the Premier League.

Liverpool must continue to focus on their goals this season, with the club gearing up for a clash with De Zerbi's Brighton this weekend. A positive result for the Seagulls may go in his favour if he does have goals of replacing Klopp.