Florian Plettenberg’s recent report suggests that Bayer Leverkusen may potentially establish a near-world-record precedent in the realm of managerial transfers with regard to their manager, Xabi Alonso. This development arises as Alonso emerges as a prime target for several of Europe’s prominent football clubs.
The impending departures of Jurgen Klopp from Anfield and Thomas Tuchel from Bayern Munich have catalyzed interest from both Liverpool and Bayern Munich in securing Alonso’s services for the upcoming summer transfer window. Notably, Leverkusen’s notable performance in the Bundesliga title race, overshadowing Tuchel’s underwhelming campaign, has further heightened Alonso’s appeal to these clubs.
According to Plettenberg’s insights, Alonso is purportedly inclined towards the prospect of joining Bayern Munich, with Liverpool not featuring prominently in his considerations. Plettenberg affirms Alonso’s stance on this matter. However, he underscores that Leverkusen is likely to demand a substantial sum, potentially reaching £21.4m (€25m), for Alonso’s release – a figure approaching the existing world record in managerial transfers.
This current record was established by Graham Potter’s transfer to Chelsea, which amounted to £21.5m as revealed in Brighton’s financial records in 2022, surpassing the previous benchmark set by Julian Nagelsmann’s move to Bayern Munich.
Consequently, any potential suitors for Alonso will need to demonstrate a significant financial commitment to secure his services. Nonetheless, Alonso retains the option to reject both Liverpool and Bayern Munich and explore alternative opportunities until 2025, when the possibility of assuming the managerial position at Real Madrid may emerge, as hinted by Plettenberg, who suggests the inclusion of a €15m release clause in Alonso’s contract at that juncture.
The pivotal consideration, however, remains Alonso’s openness towards Bayern Munich. While Liverpool may not hesitate to invest heavily in securing their desired managerial candidate, their primary obstacle lies in whether Alonso is inclined towards joining Anfield. Although reports suggest his receptiveness to such a prospect, it is evident that he possesses an array of appealing alternatives beyond Liverpool.