Alonso Eyeing Guler as First Liverpool Signing Should He Replace Slot This Summer

Xabi Alonso has already earmarked Real Madrid attacking midfielder Arda Guler as his priority target should he land the Liverpool hotseat, according to reports emerging from Spain.

The Reds' Premier League title triumph in Slot's debut campaign—2024/25—feels like ancient history now. This season has been a far cry from those heights, with the side languishing in sixth place, just three points separating them from fourth-placed Manchester United whilst Arsenal have opened up a commanding 15-point gap at the summit.

Speculation has mounted that Slot could face the axe when the season concludes, though Liverpool's hierarchy appear reluctant to make any managerial switch mid-campaign. Former Liverpool midfielder Alonso has emerged as the bookies' favourite to take over, particularly given his recent sacking from Real Madrid earlier this season.

Spanish outlet Fichajes now claims that Alonso has already identified Guler as the man he wants through the door first if he gets the nod to replace the Dutchman come summer. The Liverpool board are apparently taking the prospect seriously, with reports suggesting they are 'seriously considering' bringing in the former Tottenham man.

Alonso has allegedly made his intentions crystal clear to the board, expressing his desire to land Turkey international Guler, who has endured a stop-start campaign at the Bernabéu. The 24-year-old is viewed by Alonso as someone capable of thriving within his footballing philosophy at Anfield.

There's a catch, though. Real Madrid are unlikely to sanction a bargain basement deal. The Spanish giants have reportedly slapped a minimum asking price of around €90 million on their attacking midfielder, which could prove a significant hurdle to any potential move.

Jamie O'Hara, the former Tottenham midfielder turned pundit, reckons Slot's days are numbered if Liverpool fail to secure Champions League football. Speaking to 10bet, O'Hara suggested the manager "needs to win" and must secure a top-four finish at minimum.

"That's unacceptable for the money they spent," O'Hara said. "Still got trophies on offer that they could potentially win. I wouldn't write them off for the Champions League to get into the late stages. European football's different. I think it's a lot more open and I think it helps Liverpool."

He added: "I think if he gets in the top four and the performances are better then he might keep his job. But I think there's just a lot of good managers breathing down his neck right now."