Reports coming out of Spain claim that Xabi Alonso would only consider taking over at Liverpool F.C. if the club agrees to meet specific transfer demands, including bringing in three new signings to strengthen key areas of the squad.
Current manager Arne Slot is reportedly facing growing pressure at Anfield following a disappointing home draw against Tottenham Hotspur, a result that led to visible frustration from supporters, who booed the team off the pitch. Despite guiding Liverpool to a Premier League title in his debut season, Slot’s future now appears uncertain. The Dutch coach has yet to agree to a contract extension, and with less than a year remaining on his current deal by the start of next season, speculation around his position continues to intensify.
Amid this uncertainty, Alonso has emerged once again as a strong contender for the role. The former Liverpool midfielder has been without a managerial position since leaving Real Madrid, where he had a brief spell. Interestingly, Alonso was previously linked with the Liverpool job before Slot’s appointment, but at the time, his path seemed firmly set toward Madrid following his departure from Bayer Leverkusen.
Now, Spanish reports suggest that Liverpool’s admiration for Alonso has not faded, and the club still views him as an ideal long-term leader. However, the Spaniard is said to be cautious and would only accept the role if he is fully convinced by the club’s sporting vision and long-term project.
A major part of that vision, according to the reports, involves strengthening the squad—particularly in defense. Concerns remain over the future of Ibrahima Konaté, who has yet to commit to a new contract, while club captain Virgil van Dijk is entering the later stages of his career.
Although Liverpool have already secured a young defensive prospect in Jérémy Jacquet, Alonso reportedly has his sights set on Alessandro Bastoni from Inter Milan as the perfect long-term successor in central defense.
In addition to defensive reinforcements, midfield is another area Alonso is believed to want to upgrade. While Alexis Mac Allister has not consistently matched his previous performances, Liverpool have shown faith in Ryan Gravenberch by handing him a new long-term deal. Still, Alonso reportedly views Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace as an ideal addition to form a strong midfield partnership moving forward.
Overall, while Alonso remains a highly attractive option for Liverpool, any potential move would depend heavily on whether the club is willing to back him in the transfer market and meet his specific squad-building demands.
