Xabi Alonso is close to signing, but demands to sign these two stars

Liverpool are stepping up their efforts to secure Xabi Alonso as their next manager. The highly-successful San Sebastian-born coach is emerging as the favourite to succeed Jürgen Klopp at Anfield, prompting the club to send observers to closely assess his performances at Bayer Leverkusen, with whom he leads the Bundesliga.

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According to reports in the Mirror, Liverpool representatives watched Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen beat Bayern Munich, confirming their interest in the coach. Alonso's impressive work in Germany has attracted interest from several big European clubs, including FC Barcelona and Bayern themselves.

However, Liverpool appear to be taking the lead in negotiations. The prospect of Alonso's return to his former home at Anfield has generated excitement among fans, who see him as the key to kick-starting a new era after Klopp's departure.

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Accompanying Xabi Alonso will be

As well as interest in Alonso, Liverpool are also eyeing the likes of Leverkusen's Piero Hincapie and Florian Wirtz, both of whom could follow the manager should he sign for the English club. Although Liverpool will face competition from other teams interested in Alonso, the prospect of his arrival could accelerate the arrival of these emerging talents at Anfield.