Bayern Munich have reportedly made contact with Roberto De Zerbi as they look to sound out the Brighton boss as an alternative to Xabi Alonso for the summer. The Italian is expected to be in high demand at the end of the season, with Manchester United and Barcelona monitoring his situation closely as well.
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Bayern have endured a miserable season so far and could end the campaign without a trophy to their name. Reports of player discontent have been rife from the Allianz Arena, with ex-Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel failing to make his mark at the German giants.
As a result, a decision was made to part ways with the former Borussia Dortmund manager at the end of the campaign. Bayer Leverkusen’s Alonso was promptly shortlisted as the Bavarian's top target, though it could prove difficult to lure the Spaniard away from the BayerArena.
Liverpool are also interested in appointing their former midfielder as the successor for Jurgen Klopp, though remaining with Bayer Leverkusen is an option not being ruled out. As a result, Bayern have begun laying the foundations for ‘Plan B’.
According to BILD, the Bundesliga outfit have made contact with De Zerbi to sound out their interest in potentially acquiring the services of the Italian. The 44-year-old has caught the eye of top clubs around Europe since joining Brighton, with a move away from the Amex Stadium firmly on the cards this summer.
De Zerbi is said to be ‘fascinated and flattered’ by the approach from Bayern and has entertained the talks. However, much to the disappointment of new sports director Max Eberl, the Seagulls boss is keen to remain open to all approaches ahead of the summer before making a firm decision on his future.
Liverpool have also shortlisted De Zerbi as a potential alternative to Alonso, along with Sporting’s Ruben Amorim. But the higher powers at Anfield may take confidence from knowing that Bayern are already touching base with other managers given that reports in Germany previously speculated that a move to the club was firmly on the cards.
Alonso has led Leverkusen to an unbeaten season in all competitions so far, with his side currently ten points clear at the top of the Bundesliga and having a live chance of winning the Europa League.
