Liverpool handed huge Xabi Alonso blow following Bayern Munich announcement

Liverpool's pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso has been thrown into doubt following the news of Thomas Tuchel's departure from Bayern Munich.

A report from Sky Germany has revealed that Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel will leave the club at the end of the season.

The report from Florian Plettenberg stated: "After good and fair discussions FC Bayern and Thomas Tuchel have decided to part ways at the end of the season."

Given Bayern's current form and league position it is no real surprise the club are parting ways with Tuchel, with the German giants consistently having a 'cut throat' approach to their managerial position.

Whilst the news is huge for the Bundesliga, it actually has a rather damning impact on Liverpool as it has been revealed Bayern Munich will make Xabi Alonso their priority in the summer according to Sky Germany.

"The 42 y/o is now the absolute top candidate to replace Thomas Tuchel at the end of the season," claims Plettenberg.

It has been widely reported that Alonso would be the successor to Jurgen Klopp who will also be leaving his post at the end of the season, but with Alonso absolutely flying in the Bundesliga with Leverkusen a move to Bayern might be more appealing.

When questioned on the Liverpool job, the Spaniard said in a press conference he is not yet thinking about the "next step".

He said: "To be honest I am not in this moment thinking about the next step. I am thinking about where I am right now and I think I am in a great place which I enjoy."

Alonso's connection to Liverpool was assumed to be one of the key factors regarding a potential switch to the Premier League, but having ultimately retired at Bayern the German's will think their past with the Leverkusen will be just as useful in order to gain Alonso's services.