Liverpool next manager: Bayern to split with Tuchel, Alonso 'prefers' Liverpool

Thomas Tuchel will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season, according to reports in Germany. The news means Liverpool are likely to face strong competition for top managerial target Xabi Alonso.

Following a run of three losses, including a 3-0 hammering against title rivals Leverkusen, Bayern have made the decision to part ways with Tuchel at the end of the season.

According to various reports including Sky Sport DE, Tuchel and Bayern have come to an agreement after discussions on Tuesday night.

The former Chelsea boss has a contract in Bavaria until 2025 but with Bayern staring down the prospect of a first trophyless season in 12 years, the club have decided to make a change.

While an official announcement on Tuchel's future has yet to be communicated, it is expected that Bayern will attempt to lure Alonso in as their new head coach for 2024/25.

It has been previously reported that the 42-year-old Leverkusen boss is the 'top candidate' and 'plan A' to take over at the Allianz Arena.

Confirmation of Bayern's plans adds pressure on Liverpool, who have also earmarked Alonso as their preferred managerial target to succeed the departing Jurgen Klopp.

Alonso, who is the bookmakers' favourite to be the next Liverpool manager, was recently named the standout coach of his generation by Klopp in what was seen by many as an indirect endorsement by the current boss.

The ex-midfield playmaker may now be made to choose between his former clubs while he also tries to secure unbeaten Leverkusen a first Bundesliga title in their 119-year history.

Preferred move

Many reports have previously suggested that Alonso has long held the dream of managing one of his old clubs (Bayern, Liverpool or Real Madrid). However, according to journalist Ben Jacobs, Alonso, however, would 'prefer' a move to the Premier League over Bayern — though he could yet remain where he is at the BayArena.

He speculated to CaughtOffside: “Xabi Alonso is one of the big favourites to be the next Liverpool manager. Liverpool’s plan is to find a sporting director first, and quickly, then have them input on Jurgen Klopp’s replacement.

“Bayern’s poor form is not likely to influence the process. This is partly because Bayern’s board are sticking with Thomas Tuchel for now. But even if he is fired, Liverpool feel Alonso prefers a Premier League move should he be offered the job and decide to leave Leverkusen.”

He added: “Alonso could yet decide to stay and lead Leverkusen in the Champions League next season. But if he goes, sources indicate Bayern is not of as much appeal as Liverpool, even though Alonso is high on the list of potential Tuchel replacements.

“It’s also worth pointing out that staying at Leverkusen for another season could also open up the chance for Alonso to go to another former club, Real Madrid, and replace Carlo Ancelotti in 2025.

“Alonso is spoilt for choice, and I expect him to take his time.”

As well as Alonso, Liverpool have been linked with a number of Leverkusen's star players including Florian Wirtz, Piero Hincapie and Jeremie Frimpong, while current and former club directors Simon Rolfes and Tim Steidten have also been suggested for the Reds' vacant sporting director role.