Liverpool Next Manager: Xabi Alonso boost as Bayern Munich set sights on new target

Liverpool might have received a boost in the race for Xabi Alonso, with reports that Bayern Munich have made Antonio Conte their first-choice managerial target.

It has been widely reported that both Liverpool and Bayern Munich are interested in Bayer Leverkusen head coach Alonso as they seek new appointments at the end of the season.

The 42-year-old Spaniard is perhaps the hottest property in Europe right now, with his side ten points clear at the top of the Bundesliga and on course for a first-ever title.

They also remain in both the German Cup and Europa League, where they could yet meet Liverpool in the final on 22 May.

With Liverpool's new behind-the-scenes structure now in place following the appointments of Michael Edwards (FSG's CEO of football) and Richard Hughes (sporting director), Liverpool are now expected to step up their efforts to land Jurgen Klopp's successor, with Alonso the number one target.

Bayern too had been expected to make an aggressive push for their former midfielder. However, there are now suggestions they are widening their search.

La Repubblica claims that instead of Alonso, Bayern's first-choice to replace the departing Thomas Tuchel is actually former Chelsea and Tottenham manager Conte.

The 54-year-old has been out of work since leaving Spurs in 2023 and was 'contacted a few months ago' by Bayern.

While Conte is described as a 'priority' for Bayern, negotiations are expected to be difficult with the Italian preferring a return to Serie A.

However, one month ago, the Daily Mail also reported on the Conte links but claimed back then that it was actually the former Juventus coach pushing for the job as pressure began to mount on Tuchel.

Bayern chief discusses manager targets

Meanwhile, new Bayern Munich sporting director Max Eberl has insisted the club is still finalising their shortlist of targets, suggesting the recruitment process is not at an advanced stage.

Eberl, who joined the club last month, revealed: "There is currently no plan A, B and C. We are screening the situation: what the squad looks like, what DNA the club has, what history.

"We think carefully: which coaches fit what we have? What this club radiates and wants to achieve?"

The former RB Leipzig recruitment chief added that there are "more than four, but not 40 names" on the list, with the club decision makers looking to whittle the options down before final discussions.

He continued: "We have a list that we would like to work through in peace and have conversations in peace. Based on the information, feasibility and similarities - club, squad, coach - we try to make the best decision.

"We want a trainer who doesn't stay for a short period of time, but is here for the medium and long term. This is an important constant when it comes to squad planning and strategy."