Liverpool latest: New manager shortlist 'revealed' amid fresh contract stand-off

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The latest Liverpool news as Arne Slot faces pressure for Liverpool's poor start to the season while the Reds are facing yet another battle over player contractsLiverpool's title defence has been a disaster thus far. The result has even led the Dutchman to put any talk of a title challenge on hold for now.READ MORE: Liverpool told to be 'braver' with Florian Wirtz as Arne Slot task clearWith rumours of a shortlist being prepared should Slot lose his position and a contract issue looming for Liverpool, The ECHO takes a look at the latest news from Anfield.New manager 'shortlist'While Slot still enjoys the support of the Liverpool board, a list of names he was reportedly up against before becoming Liverpool manager has emerged.The Daily Mail reports that before Fenway Sports Group's (FSG) decision to appoint the Premier League-winning Dutchman, they considered approaches for Sebastian Hoeness of Stuttgart and former Brighton, now Marseille coach, Roberto De Zerbi.Michel from Girona, Ernesto Valverde of Athletic Bilbao and Luciano Spalletti, formerly of Italy and now the Juventus boss were also in the mix.The report claims the Reds could potentially look to return for those targets should Slot depart, although that scenario remains unlikely.

It also highlights Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner and Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola as names to watch, while Inigo Perez of Rayo Vallecano is also flagged up as a manager who has made waves in the football world for his coaching skills.French legend Zinedine Zidane, who has been jobless since leaving Real Madrid in 2021 is also mentioned. Gravenberch has emerged as the Reds' standout performer this campaign, though his agent's remarks connecting the midfielder with Real Madrid are likely to concern supporters at Anfield."When Ryan was 16, Barca called us," Gravenberch's agent told the Mail.

I know they've had their eye on him but now it's impossible."Speaking ahead of facing Madrid, Gravenberch said: "Obviously I'm happy here, we have to see. No matter how much the club loves me, if I play poorly this weekend, they'll lose interest."Spanish outlet AS have additionally reported that both Real and Manchester City are keeping close tabs on Szoboszlai.Liverpool are understood to be eager to extend his deal until 2030 whilst offering the midfielder a salary increase to reflect his impressive displays, yet like his two midfield partners, the Hungarian international currently has no new contract offer on the table.