David Ornstein drops update on Xabi Alonso, Arne Slot and one key Liverpool player

David Ornstein has released a significant update on the future of Liverpool manager Arne Slot, whether Xabi Alonso could replace him, and the contract situation surrounding Ibrahima Konate.

Slot has come under increasing pressure over recent weeks as Liverpool's form continues to slide.

The Reds still need three points from their final two Premier League matches - away to Aston Villa and at home to Brentford - to guarantee qualification for next season's Champions League.

Slot was booed during Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Anfield on Saturday, and came in for particular criticism over his decision to substitute winger Rio Ngumoha.

The Dutchman, who led Liverpool to the Premier League title last season, would later clarify that Ngumoha was suffering from cramp prior to his withdrawal.

Former Reds midfielder Alonso has been heavily linked with replacing Slot if Liverpool do make a change but Ornstein, writing for The Athletic, reported on Monday evening that Chelsea are 'exploring' a deal to make him their new head coach.

Read more: David Ornstein update on Xabi Alonso amid Chelsea and Liverpool links

Ornstein on Alonso, Slot and Konate

Ornstein later made an appearance on NBC ahead of the Premier League clash between Tottenham and Leeds to reveal Liverpool's stance on the Spaniard.

"My information is that Xabi Alonso is not under consideration at Liverpool at all," he stated. "Liverpool fully intend to go into next season with Arne Slot as their head coach.

"I think Liverpool will want to recruit for Arne Slot this summer, in particular in the wing positions. And they think that will be crucial.

"Liverpool will look to do more work in the transfer market."

Alonso faced Slot's Liverpool while he was at Bayer Leverkusen and again with Real Madrid (Image: Getty)

On the future of centre-back Konate, who has held talks over a new deal ahead of his current contract expiring this summer, he added that the likelihood of him staying at Anfield is 'not looking particularly positive'.

"As I understand it, the situation is still a stalemate and it's not looking particularly positive.

"Although until either side walks away, there is still hope, of course, that that could reach a positive conclusion for him to stay at Anfield."

Ornstein went on to explain that sporting director Richard Hughes, who is two years into a three-year contract at Anfield, is '100 per cent committed' to remaining at the club and 'leading Liverpool into next season'.

"He's been heavily linked with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League," Ornstein added. "They are interested, but I've been assured that nothing has been agreed on that front."