Man United tipped to rival Liverpool for key manager target

Manchester United could move to rival Liverpool for one of their key manager targets. The Reds need to replace Jurgen Klopp.

The Telegraph reports that Liverpool will have competition for their top managerial targets. The club are now looking to replace Jurgen Klopp after the German announced his intention to step down as manager at the end of the season.

The Reds immediately have some names linked with them, of course. Xabi Alonso is the biggest link among them, with Brighton's Roberto De Zerbi and Sporting's Ruben Amorim linked by the Portuguese press.

But it seems that the first two are very in demand.

Bayern Munich are busy deciding whether to continue with Thomas Tuchel. If they decide to move on, Alonso would be at the top of their list for a new manager.

United, on the other hand, like De Zerbi as an alternative to Erik Ten Hag. Their change in ownership could see them move on from the Dutchman, who has been under fire this season.

And so Liverpool have a bit of a problem - their primary targets have options. That's not exactly ideal when you're hoping to sign them, especially when it comes to contract negotiations.

But the Reds also have an advantage. They're the only club openly looking for a new manager, with United and Bayern yet to even decide if they want a change.

Liverpool may give up their advantage, though, as they reportedly intend to wait for the end of the season before announcing their new manager. That does give plenty of time for both United and Bayern to formally enter the market, too.

It may be enough for Liverpool to speed up their process, in fact. This is the biggest decision they've made in decades, in all truth, and it's one they will want to go as smoothly as possible.