Tottenham make Liverpool legend their new No.1 managerial target

Liverpool legend Xabi Alonso is now Tottenham’s No.1 target as they continue to search for their new manager, according to reports.

Daniel Levy is on the hunt for his fifth permanent manager in just four years, following the dismissal of Antonio Conte in March.

Recently sacked Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann emerged as the early frontrunner for the job and his appointment seemed to be getting closer after turning down the chance to manage rivals Chelsea.

However, concerns over his potential wage demands have left Spurs exploring other options and according to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, the Lilywhites have a new top candidate.

Alonso only began his senior managerial career last October when he took over at Bayer Leverkusen having previously been in charge of Real Sociedad B for three seasons.

But the 41-year-old has worked his magic in Germany, firing Leverkusen up the Bundesliga table from 17th to sixth and reaching the Europa League semi-finals where they’ll face Jose Mourinho’s Roma.

He has won 17 of his 31 matches in charge, scoring 60 goals in that period and are currently on a 14-game unbeaten run.

Additionally, Alonso also boasts a hugely impressive playing career and the former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich star is considered one of the best midfielders of his generation.

He won two Champions Leagues, four league titles and four major domestic cups and was part of the incredible Spain side that won back-to-back Euros and the World Cup between 2008 and 2012.

The report also claims that highly-rated Feyenoord manager Arne Slot is also still under heavy consideration by Tottenham, while Nagelsmann, Burnley’s Vincent Kompany and former Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers continue to be be linked.

In the meantime, Ryan Mason, who last week replaced sacked interim manager Cristian Stellini, will continue to take charge of Spurs, with the team set to host Crystal Palace on Saturday.

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