Liverpool turn to Amorim & De Zerbi after Alonso decides to stay at Bayer Leverkusen  | OneFootball

Liverpool have reportedly ended their pursuit of Xabi Alonso as he plans to stay at Bayer Leverkusen for at least another season.

Jurgen Klopp announced his departure as manager at the end of the season, and the Merseyside giants had identified Alonso as his successor at Anfield.

However, the Reds have suffered a big blow as the former Real Madrid star will not be available this summer, (h/t the Times).

The Premier League outfit will target Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim and Brighton & Hove Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi.

Amorim led his side to the Portuguese title in 2021, and they are now on course to win another championship this season.

Brighton qualified for Europe for the first time in their history following a sixth-placed finish under De Zerbi last term.

Missing out on Alonso will be disappointing for Liverpool supporters, who had pinned their hopes on the Spaniard replacing Klopp.

The 42-year-old lifted the Champions League and the FA Cup during his time on Merseyside between 2004 and 2009.

Alonso joined Leverkusen in October 2022 when they were languishing in the relegation zone, and he has completely transformed the club’s fortunes.

Leverkusen are on the brink of securing the Bundesliga title this season after leaving reigning champions Bayern Munich trailing in their wake.