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Xabi Alonso is unlikely to feature on the final shortlist to succeed Jürgen Klopp as Liverpool manager, as the club believes the Spaniard will not be available this summer, according to The Times.

The daily newspaper claims that “the development strengthens the hand of candidates such as the Sporting Lisbon head coach, Rúben Amorim, who is highly regarded at Anfield, and the Brighton and Hove Albion manager, Roberto De Zerbi.”

“Liverpool’s due diligence has indicated that Alonso is minded to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for at least another season and continue the impressive work that has left the German club on the brink of a first Bundesliga title.”

Alonso’s arrival at Leverkusen in October 2022, when they were languishing in the relegation zone, has seen a remarkable transformation in their fortunes, now holding a 10-point lead.

Bayern Munich honorary president Uli Hoeness, in an interview on Thursday, raised doubts regarding the possibility of hiring Xabi Alonso as their next manager this summer.

Hoeness suggested that luring Alonso back to the Allianz Arena may not be a straightforward task for the club ahead of the next season.

“We’ll have to see if we can do it this year,” he said.

“It will be difficult, if not probably impossible.”

“[Alonso] is more inclined to stay at Bayer Leverkusen in view of their current successes, because he would not want to leave them behind.”

“Let’s say if he had two or three more years of success, it would probably be easier to bring him out of there.”

Both Liverpool and Bayern are also interested in Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi as an alternative option.

Liverpool’s new sporting director Richard Hughes is a strong admirer of the Italian manager.

Hughes previously attempted to bring De Zerbi to Bournemouth when Scott Parker departed two years ago, only for complications arising from the ownership to derail the move.

Liverpool’s preference is for a young manager who can develop and thrive at the club

They are also seeking someone who espouses an attacking style of football and possesses a commanding personality.

Read more: The Times report Liverpool expect Xabi Alonso to stay in Germany

Bayern Munich chief rates club’s chances of hiring Xabi Alonso ahead of Liverpool

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