Liverpool have reportedly ramped up their interest in appointing Xabi Alonso as Jurgen Klopp's replacement.
The Reds are on the hunt to try and find the right man to take the hot seat at Anfield once Klopp walks away from the club.
Alonso has emerged as the frontrunner to take the job, but Liverpool aren't alone in being interested in the former Spain international.
The 42-year-old has earned widespread praise for the job he's done at Bayer Leverkusen with the club currently top of the Bundesliga and unbeaten in the league for the season.
Xabi Alonso is Liverpool's top choice to replace Jurgen Klopp
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Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are said to be interested in bringing in Alonso.
But Sport Bild now claim Liverpool have made the first approach to try and nab Alonso from under the noses of their European rivals.
The report states that Liverpool have made contact with Alonso's agent, Inaki Ibanez.
Leverkusen's hierarchy are said to have been made aware of the approach, but they're not concerned.
Alonso is under contract with the German club until 2026 and Leverkusen appear confident of keeping their manager beyond this season.
The Spaniard is a fan favourite at Anfield having been a part of the 2005 Champions League winning side.
He spent five years on Merseyside and he left to join Real in 2009 as a direct result of Rafael Benitez attempting to swap him for Gareth Barry.
Alonso admitted to being shocked at the news of Klopp's imminent departure from Liverpool when asked about it last month and addressed rumours linking him with the job.
Liverpool are looking for Jurgen Klopp's replacement
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"I was surprised by Jurgen's news. I have huge respect for Jurgen and Liverpool," he said.
"At the moment I am really happy here and enjoying my work. Each day and game is a challenge. We are in an intense and beautiful journey here at Leverkusen."
He continued: "Speculation is normal, but I have great respect and admiration for what Jurgen has done at Liverpool in the last nine years, and how he's done it.
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"He has a connection with the fans, he's done a great job, but my focus is here at Bayer Leverkusen.
"I have great motivation to do a good job here, I'm very happy with the team, with the club, with everything, so that's my focus.
"My focus isn't on May, it's on tomorrow ahead of our game against Gladbach and helping my players to be ready. But what I will say is it was surprising what happened at Liverpool with Jurgen leaving."
