Liverpool settle on new top target to replace Jurgen Klopp as club draw up official three-man shortlist

Liverpool look to have found their Jurgen Klopp replacement, following seemingly failing in their pursuit of Xabi Alonso and Ruben Amorim.

According to a breaking report from The Times' Paul Joyce, Liverpool are closing in on Arne Slot to replace Jurgen Klopp as manager next season as the Feyenoord boss emerges as the leading candidate.

The 45-year-old manager led Feyenoord to a victory in the KNVB Cup final last weekend and has developed a solid reputation in the Netherlands.

His leadership contributed to Feyenoord's success, culminating in their first Eredivisie title in six years during the 2022-23 season.

His potential move to Anfield is not yet guaranteed, as Liverpool are exploring other candidates for the managerial role. The uncertainty is compounded by managerial openings at several top European clubs like Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and AC Milan this summer.

Liverpool's reported three man shortlist for Klopp's replacement still includes Amorim despite recent rumours, with the Sporting manager alongside Slot and Roberto De Zerbi.

Arne Slot- Getty

Feyenoord are keen to keep Arne Slot as their coach, with technical director Dennis te Kloese expressing confidence that Slot will remain with the team next season.

However, Slot appears interested in advancing his career, despite his contract running until 2026. Although there's no release clause in his contract, a fee of less than €10 million (£8.6 million) might be enough to secure his services.

Rather notably, Slot's press conference ahead of his side's Eredivisie game against Go Ahead Eagles has been cancelled today adding to the speculation.

Feyenoord declined to confirm or deny reports of Liverpool's interest in Arne Slot, who is a disciple of City boss Pep Guardiola's style of play.

Slot also has a relationship with current Liverpool's assistant manager, Pepijn Lijnders. The club's lack of comment leaves room for speculation about Slot's potential move to Liverpool or other clubs in search of a new manager.