Liverpool linked manager would now 'love' to join Barcelona

Hansi Flick, linked with the new manager role at Liverpool, would reportedly 'love' to join Barcelona in the summer. Both jobs will be available.

Fabrizio Romano claims that Hansi Flick would 'love' to take the Barcelona job this summer. He's told his Daily Briefing that the German coach sees it as an ideal role - even if nothing is advanced right now.

This comes after Xavi announced his intention to step down as Barcelona boss at the end of the season. The Spaniard talked about the pressure in the role, believing it's become too much for him to continue.

Of course, Barcelona isn't the only major job up for grabs. Jurgen Klopp will also leave his role as Liverpool manager, sparking a fairly intense race for the world's top coaches.

Flick is, per Sport Bild, on Liverpool's shortlist this summer as they seek Klopp's replacement. Xabi Alonso is at the top of that list, though - Flick is considered more of an outside contender.

It appears the former Bayern Munich boss would jump at the chance to move to Catalonia, though.

"It’s very early stages at Barça," says Romano. "They will take some time before deciding their favourite candidates, starting interviews and more.

“Flick would love to work for Barcelona, that’s for sure; but there is nothing more than this so far, no decisions, nothing advanced.”

The hope here, from Liverpool's point of view, will be that Barcelona focus on Flick as their next boss. He's not, by any reports, high on the Reds' list of candidates and the less competition for the top targets, the better.

There are essentially zero reports that Barcelona would go after Alonso, either. His history with Real Madrid supposedly puts them up there with Liverpool on his list of dream jobs, too - so a move to their arch-rivals is likely out of the question.

That's brilliant for the Reds, of course. Flick to Barcelona? That shouldn't be a worry and it leaves Liverpool facing little competition for their best options this summer.