Bayern Munich ‘open talks with Xabi Alonso’ as the Bayer Leverkusen coach is ‘targeted as Thomas Tuchel’s replacement’ despite being linked with a move to Liverpool

Bayern Munich have opened talks with Xabi Alonso about the possibility of the Bayer Leverkusen manager replacing Thomas Tuchel at the end of the season, according to reports.

Alonso is expected to be in hot demand at the end of the season, with his Leverkusen side still unbeaten as they close in on the Bundesliga title, and both Liverpool and Bayern keen on the Spaniard.

Bayern are already searching for their next head coach after it was announced Tuchel would depart in the summer and discussions are now ongoing with Alonso, as reported by Sky Germany. 

Alonso has been highlighted by Bayern as the club’s preferred candidate to replace Tuchel who has watched his side slump to 10-point drift of Alonso’s Leverkusen in the league standings.

Leverkusen look set to end Munich’s 12-year stranglehold on the German top-flight title and secure a first Bundesliga crown having starred under Alonso’s guidance. 

Alonso previously starred for Bayern as a player after leaving Real Madrid and the 42-year-old has given ‘positive signals’ that he would be keen on joining the club in the summer.

However, his exit is expected to cost Germany’s most decorated club between £13m and £21m due to a fixed clause in his contract at Leverkusen.

Alonso’s existing deal at the league leaders currently runs until the summer of 2026.

The news comes as a huge blow to Liverpool who are also keeping tabs on Alonso as a potential successor to legendary Reds manager Jurgen Klopp.

Liverpool made the shock announcement in January that Klopp has decided to leave the club at the end of the season and Alonso has been linked with the upcoming vacancy ever since.

Alonso won the Champions League as an Anfield star in 2005 and has always maintained a close affinity with fans of the club.

More to follow.