Liverpool's search for Jürgen Klopp's successor is set to lead to two standout names, after it emerged that Xabi Alonso is set to stay at Bayer Leverkusen.

Alonso has been the favorite to take over from Klopp, with his Leverkusen side 10 points clear at the top of Bundesliga and unbeaten in all competitions.

But he is expected to remain in his current job for at least another year, with The Telegraph among those reporting that Liverpool will now consider alternatives.



It is claimed that Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi and Sporting CP's Ruben Amorim are the two 'outstanding remaining candidates'.

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De Zerbi will get an immediate 'audition' for the role on Sunday when his Brighton side make the trip to Anfield.

In his four matches against Klopp's Liverpool, his side is yet to taste defeat.

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He is likely to be a man in demand this summer.

But the Premier League side is likely to demand his full release clause is paid before an exit is sanctioned.

That would set Liverpool — or any other interested club — back $16m (£13m/€15m) according to The Mirror, with De Zerbi having made a great impression since taking over as Brighton boss back in 2022.

It does appear that the Reds will have to pay even more if it wants to lure Amorim away from Sporting.

Liverpool will be weighing up its options but a number of other clubs are also on the lookout for a new manager, so a swift approach may be needed.