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Liverpool prepared to miss out on Xabi Alonso this summer

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Liverpool prepared to miss out on Xabi Alonso this summer
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Xabi Alonso is chasing the first-ever Bundesliga title for his club.

Liverpool are searching for a replacement for Jurgen Klopp who is leaving the club at the end of the season. They focused highly on Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso who is impressive in Bundesliga.

The 42-year-old is chasing the first-ever Bundesliga title for his club and it’s happening. Bayer Leverkusen are 10 points ahead of Bayern Munich in the German top-flight. They are also in the quarterfinal of the UEFA Europa League.

As per reports, Alonso may not join Liverpool. He is likely to leave the club in the summer and may join rival club Bayern Munich. Thomas Tuchel will leave Bayern at the end of the season after a poor stint in Germany.

Alonso’s side are unbeaten in the first 26 matches of the top-flight season and they haven’t lost in the Europa League as well. He has won 50 of his 75 matches in charge across all competitions, tasting defeat on just 10 occasions.

As per the reports of Sky Sports News, the Spaniard has decided where his next destination will be for the new season. He has decided to join Bayern instead of Liverpool.

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Fabrizio Romano confirms Real Madrid interest in Trent Alexander-Arnold

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Jamie Carragher asks Klopp to drop Trent Alexander-Arnold this weekend
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Real Madrid eyes Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold as transfer target

Fabrizio Romano, renowned for his transfer updates, confirmed Real Madrid’s strong interest in Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool’s top defender. With the Englishman still to sign a new contract, Los Blancos have set their eyes on the dynamic player, whose contract runs until 2025.

Romano revealed that no discussions had taken place about Alexander-Arnold’s contract renewal, suggesting that Real Madrid could step in. Despite this, Liverpool keeps firm in their stance, arguing no desire to part ways with the 25-year-old prodigy.

Liverpool is going through a transitional period with Jurgen Klopp’s upcoming exit, and uncertainty lurks over Anfield. Contract difficulties for important players like as Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah raise the prospect of a substantial team change.

Alexander-Arnold’s adaptability adds to his enticement, as he can play as a right-back, right wing-back, or midfielder. Since his debut in the 2016/17 season, he has made 302 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 18 goals to show his significance to the squad.

Alexander-Arnold has been sidelined with a knee injury since February 10, but he remains confident of contributing to Liverpool’s Premier League and Europa League title pursuits. Liverpool, which has already won the League Cup, hopes to add to its trophy collection this season.

As the summer approaches, Alexander-Arnold’s objectives go beyond club success, with chances of making England’s Euro 2024 squad. However, his immediate focus remains on assisting Liverpool’s quest for victory, despite Real Madrid’s rising interest in his services.

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Liverpool eyeing move for Nottingham Forest ace Murillo

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Liverpool eyeing move for Nottingham Forest ace Murillo

Murillo will see his contract expire at the end of the season 2027-28.

As per the fresh report of the Daily Mail, Liverpool are eyeing a move for Nottingham Forest ace Murillo. It is added that the Merseyside club have identified the 21-year-old defender as a target for the summer transfer window.

The Brazilian has been terrific for his club and put great performances at the City Ground. Murillo has featured for 27 times for his current employers this season.

He will see his contract expire at the end of the season 2027-28. It won’t be easy for the Reds to complete the signing. The club would have to make a sizable offer if they want to get the signature of this player.

The 21-year-old centre-half is a tough-tackling defender and can even play his way out from the back. The Reds can go for him considering the future. He has a good height and he can use his robust frame to win a few 50-50 aerial duels for his team.

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Liverpool return to enquire about Real Madrid’s Rodrygo

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Liverpool made Rodrygo bid before Real Madrid - Former Santos boss Elano
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Liverpool rekindles interest in Real Madrid’s Rodrygo

Liverpool has reignited their interest in Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, suggesting a possible summer move for the Brazilian sensation.

According to Sports from Spain, the Reds are one of the clubs fighting for Rodrygo’s signing, since his future at the Bernabéu is questionable.

Real Madrid’s expected additions of Endrick and Kylian Mbappé are expected to push Rodrygo further down in the rankings. With Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham already in advanced roles, Rodrygo may find himself unnecessary to requirements. Several clubs allegedly inquired about his availability, but Real Madrid has stated that he is not for sale.

Liverpool, on the other hand, remains unfazed, with reports suggesting that they are willing to pay Real Madrid’s starting price of £85 million for Rodrygo. This interest represents a comeback in Liverpool’s pursuit of the Brazilian star, which dates back to their failed effort to recruit him in 2018.

Elano, who worked at Santos at the time, explained the situation in 2019.

“There was a period when there was a very strong negotiation from Liverpool for him to leave when he was still very young,” Elano told ESPN.

“The values were very low, but he wanted to go. Real’s offer later was around 30 million euros (around £25m) more.

“I had a conversation with people at Santos and I said that the boy was worth the bet [of rejecting Liverpool’s bid] and we should raise him because I would like to work with him.”

Liverpool was close to signing Rodrygo for a fraction of his current price, with a deal of roughly €45 million falling through.

Now, given Rodrygo’s significantly higher price tag, Liverpool are likely to bring him to Anfield as they seek to strengthen their offensive options for the coming season.

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Liverpool confirms appointment of Richard Hughes as club’s new sporting director

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Liverpool confirms appointment of Richard Hughes as club's new sporting director
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Richard Hughes has been appointed by Michael Edwards at Liverpool.

Liverpool have officially confirmed the appointment of Richard Hughes as the club’s new sporting director. He left his job of technical director at Bournemouth, and he will officially begin work with the Reds at the end of the season.

The 44-year-old has been appointed by Michael Edwards, who is now Fenway Sports Group’s CEO of Football. He returned to the Merseyside club earlier this month following his departure in the summer of 2022.

Richard Hughes speaks to Liverpool’s official website, “I am incredibly proud to be offered this opportunity. Liverpool FC is a unique club and I’m grateful to be given a chance to serve it in this capacity.”

“People rightly talk about the rich history this organisation can boast, but it is the present and future which really excites me.

“Jurgen Klopp is leading an outstanding team and squad and alongside that the commitment to young players and their pathway to the first team is also outstanding.

“I am fully aware of the expectations and responsibilities that come with taking this position. It will be my job, working with Michael [Edwards] and leading the football operations team already in place, plus the wider staff at the AXA Training Centre, to make good decisions.

“That’s really what the job entails: you have to make the kind of good decisions which enhance the prospects of having a team that wins and excites the supporters.

“It is what Liverpool have done well for a very long time and the benefits are there for everyone to see.”

Meanwhile, Edwards added: “I’m delighted Richard has agreed to join us in this vitally important position. I’ve known him for half of my life in a professional and personal capacity and he is absolutely someone who embodies the best values of Liverpool FC. I trust him completely.

“He has outstanding judgement and a track record of making smart decisions which benefit the organisations he represents. Both Richard and I are aware of the weight of responsibility that comes with working in this capacity for a club such as this. The fact he is excited and energised by the challenge ahead is important.

“It is clear to everyone that Jurgen will leave a legacy to build upon and in Richard we have the right person to make the key decisions and offer the leadership to take us forward into a bright future.

“As one very successful chapter will come to a close for Liverpool in the summer, the objective of everyone here is for another one to begin – and with Richard I am confident we have the right person in position for us to achieve this aim.”

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Dean Jones says Richard Hughes could now sign Wolves defender Rayan Ait-Nouri

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Liverpool interested in full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri
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Liverpool’s Richard Hughes eyeing Wolves defender Rayan Ait-Nouri

Transfer source Dean Jones has hinted that Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, could make a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers’ coveted defender Rayan Ait-Nouri.

With Liverpool preparing for a transitional time following Jurgen Klopp’s impending departure, the priority has shifted to strengthening the group for the future.

Jones, renowned for providing analysis into the complex world of football actions, believes Hughes is looking at Ait-Nouri as a prospective acquisition for the Reds.

Dean Jones told GIVEMESPORT:

“Some big clubs are looking at left-back options, and when you think about Liverpool, Chelsea and Man Utd and what they will be looking for, it would not surprise me if there are links to Ait-Nouri between them soon.

He’s started most of the games for Wolves this season, and he is at an age that will be intriguing to clubs because he still has room to grow and improve. He’s also shown good character by turning things around at Wolves after they threatened to turn sour for him last year. I think he will be targeted this summer.”

According to La Gazette Du Fennec, The 22-year-old left-back has been in excellent shape for Wolves, causing interest from several popular Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United.

Despite Ait-Nouri’s important position at Wolves, Jones believes Liverpool has a strong case for the Algerian international. With Hughes in the midst of transfer operations, Liverpool may look to obtain Ait-Nouri’s services to strengthen their defensive line.

As talk grows about the summer transfer window, all eyes are on Liverpool and whether Hughes will make a decisive move to bring Ait-Nouri to Anfield.

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Bayer Leverkusen CEO gives hint on Xabi Alonso’s move to Liverpool

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Bayer Leverkusen CEO gives hint on Xabi Alonso's move to Liverpool
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Bundesliga giants are expected to have a real battle on their hands to retain the services of Alonso.

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is heavily linked with Liverpool who are looking for a new manager due to Jurgen Klopp’s departure in the summer. There is a major update on this potential move as Fernando Carro has given his opinion.

Bayer Leverkusen CEO claimed ‘there is no reason’ why Xabi Alonso won’t see out his contract with the German outfit. His current contract will expire in the summer of 2026.

Bundesliga giants are expected to have a real battle on their hands to retain the services of Alonso. The Spaniard is linked with Bayern Munich as well. They are in need of a new manager when Thomas Tuchel leaves their respective role at the end of the season.

Carro (via Fabrizio Romano) admits he has a ‘good relationship’ with the Leverkusen manager and is not concerned by the reports. The 42-year-old may decide to stay with the German club.

Leverkusen are currently 10 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga. They are also through to the quarter-finals of the Europa League.

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Phil Thompson wants Pep Lijnders to be Liverpool’s next manager after Klopp

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Jurgen Klopp evokes memories of famous win over Barcelona in 2019 during Luton win
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Phil Thompson backs Pep Lijnders for Liverpool managerial role

Liverpool legend Phil Thompson has thrown his full backing behind Pep Lijnders as Jurgen Klopp’s ideal successor at Anfield. With Klopp scheduled to depart at the end of the season, Thompson appears Lijnders, who is now serving as assistant manager, is well-prepared to take over as manager.

Thompson’s support comes amid speculation about possible replacements, including former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso. Thompson, on the other hand, regards Lijnders as the standout candidate, despite the Dutchman’s initial choice to withdraw.

“I don’t think he’d [Lijnders] have too many objectors [to replace Klopp], Liverpool fans, if they know enough about the club and the people behind the scenes and the back-up staff for Jurgen,” the former Reds centre-back said on talkSPORT.

“Pep Lijnders is a fantastic coach and if you watch him on the training ground, he is full of it, full of energy and ideas. I would have no problems with him being it. If they announced it I would say yes.

There must be something else in the offing for Pep Lijnders. Whatever he does, if he goes with Klopp [or] on his own, I will wish him that best but if he was offered the job I would like to think Pep would have considered it at least.”

Lijnders joined Liverpool’s coaching staff in 2014 and has a thorough understanding of the club’s ethos and playing style. Although he briefly left to manage NEC in the Netherlands, Lijnders quickly returned to Anfield, confirming his dedication to the Reds’ mission.

While other clubs, like Ajax, have been reported interested in Lijnders, Thompson thinks Liverpool should keep their prized asset. Lijnders, with his deep knowledge of the squad and tactical aptitude, has the ability to give the continuity needed to maintain Liverpool’s success.

As the managerial search ramps up, Thompson’s backing enhances Lijnders’ credentials, placing him as a compelling candidate to lead Liverpool into a new era of success.

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Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp confirms three new injury problems after Man Utd loss

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Jurgen Klopp gives team news ahead of Carabao Cup final
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Jurgen Klopp confirms trio of new injury setbacks after Manchester United loss

Liverpool’s FA Cup dreams were dashed after an incredible 4-3 defeat to arch rivals Manchester United. Jurgen Klopp, the Reds’ manager, suffered a further blow when he stated three further injury losses during the heated match.

Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, and Darwin Nunez all sustained injuries, adding to Liverpool’s challenges on the night.

“Now the boys go on international duty, we hope they come back healthy,” said the Reds boss.

“Lucho [Diaz] felt his groin, Darwin hamstring. Cody twisted his ankle. They play again in four or five days, it’s crazy. Hopefully we will finish the season in style. I really feel for our people.”

“United had a really good start in the game, we didn’t,” he said. “We used the time and adapted well. We were outstanding but we had to finish the game off and we didn’t. If you’re only one goal up it’s clear your opponent is there. We lose it in the end. I cannot ask for more.

“The boys gave everything. Our decision making was not great [but] you have to accept the result. They deserve to go to the next round. It was a period in the second half when we should have finished it but we didn’t and we know they could come back.

“I think my boys showed incredible character again. Super effort again. Everybody showed it. You cannot compare our season to United’s with the amount of games. It’s fine, we deal with it.

“How could I doubt the character of my boys? I don’t. We use the situation and it’s game over. We didn’t use it and they ran through. I’m still proud of what I saw today. They boys have to recover and we will go for everything after the international break.”

Despite leading twice, Liverpool’s hopes were crushed in the final minutes of extra time when Amad Diallo struck the killing blow, sending United to the next round. The sorrow was obvious among the 9,000 traveling fans, who saw their team’s valiant efforts fall tragically short.

In his post-match interview, Klopp lauded his players’ unwavering dedication despite the poor outcome. After managing huge sections of the game, Liverpool’s failure to defeat their opponents has left them reeling. The defeat puts an end to their hopes of winning both domestic cups, following their recent Carabao Cup win over Chelsea.

Looking ahead, Liverpool’s focus goes to the Premier League, where they hope to recover from this loss. Their coming match against Brighton looms huge as Klopp’s team seeks redemption following their FA Cup loss. However, with Diaz, Gakpo, and Nunez injured, Klopp faces an additional obstacle in managing a demanding schedule of games.

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Ian Wright slams Darwin Nunez for role in Man Utd defeat

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Lionel Messi hails Darwin Nunez and Uruguay after loss in WC qualifiers
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Ian Wright criticizes Darwin Nunez for role in Liverpool’s defeat to Man Utd

Following Liverpool’s FA Cup quarter-final defeat to Manchester United, former Arsenal striker Ian Wright was openly critical of forward Darwin Nunez. Liverpool wasted two leads before losing to a late United winner in extra time.

Wright singled out Nunez for his expensive error, which led to United’s late equaliser. The Uruguayan forward’s skipped pass in midfield gave possession to Scott McTominay, who swiftly took advantage of the situation, setting up Marcus Rashford for the key goal.

He told ITV: “You have to look at Darwin Nunez there. What are you doing there? The thing is, he’s got the capability to play it to the left-back. You don’t put it back into that area. You just don’t do that.”

“Obviously today was on and above the edge, it was really tough for us with the 130 or whatever minutes. United had the clear best start, it was obvious, they scored the early goal,” he said.

“We had to organise ourselves a little bit better, we struggled with the man-marking, didn’t play enough, all these kinds of things. In the moment when we found for the first time a way to play then we get rhythm and then it looked really good.

“Then we were absolutely deserved 2-1 up. And second half was exceptional, absolutely exceptional what we played here. But we didn’t finish the game off and when you leave the door open away from home at Old Trafford, it’s clear they will get chances.

“It got really hard for us, then it was really hard for us. Then we go 3-2 up, all good. Then they score, 3-3, 4-3. Come on, easily can accept that, congratulations to United, they fought extremely hard as well. That’s how it is, you want to go to the semi-finals.”

Despite Liverpool’s heroic attempts, Wright proved that such errors at crucial moments should be avoided at all costs, especially during high-stakes games like the FA Cup quarterfinals.

The defeat not only destroyed Liverpool’s chances of winning four trophies in a row, but it also left a bitter taste in the mouths of both fans and players.

Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, understood the disappointment but lauded his team’s resilience in recovering from losses.

In addition, costly blunders, particularly Nunez’s, were critical in the end result of the game, leaving Liverpool and its fans wondering what may have been.

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