Liverpool ‘make first contact with Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim’ as Reds intensify search for Jurgen Klopp’s replacement after missing out on top target Xabi Alonso

Liverpool have reportedly made initial contact with Sporting Lisbon regarding the arrival of boss Ruben Amorim at Anfield this summer.

The Reds are looking for a successor to Jurgen Klopp, who will end his nine-year reign on Merseyside this summer, hoping to make his signing by winning the treble of the Premier League, Europa League and Carabao Cup – qu he won in February.

Liverpool had initially pursued their former midfielder Xabi Alonso, who is doing wonders at Bayer Leverkusen after leading them to an unbeaten season in the Bundesliga and 16 points clear of Bayern Munich at the top of the table.

However, Alonso has refused Liverpool and fellow interested party Bayern to pledge allegiance to Leverkusen next year – leaving Amorim as the next favorite to take the Anfield spot.

According to CNN, via O Jogo, the Reds have made initial contact with the 39-year-old coach and his representatives to “evaluate the possibility of him leading the team next season”.

The report adds that there have yet to be any official discussions between Liverpool and Sporting, although Amorim is aware of the Premier League club’s interest in his services.

He added that discussions between the two clubs “would not be prudent at this stage of the season”, as Sporting focuses on their bid to win the Portuguese league championship.

Sporting are four points clear of nearest rivals Benfica at the top of the league with a game in hand – with just seven matches remaining.

O Jogo adds that Amorim “wants to take a step forward in his career” and that he “wouldn’t think twice” about the interest of “one of the biggest clubs in the world”.

His contract expires in 2026 and has a release clause of around £17 million (€20 million).

The 39-year-old has emerged as the top target to succeed outgoing boss Jurgen Klopp.

Liverpool are stepping up their search after missing out on top target Xabi Alonso.

Meanwhile, another report from Sky Germany claims that a three-year deal has already been agreed between Liverpool and Amorim.

Mail Sport understands Liverpool have denied links with Amorim after reporting last week that he was open to a Premier League job and actively exploring coaching opportunities in England ahead of next season.

Amorim, one of Europe’s most sought-after coaches, will have no shortage of admirers.

Chelsea are long-time admirers of Amorim but have distanced themselves from a summer move for the highly-rated manager amid doubts over Mauricio Pochettino’s future; while Manchester United could seek a new manager amid uncertainty over INEOS’ commitment to Erik ten Hag.

Meanwhile, Barcelona are also looking for a new boss with club legend Xavi leaving the Camp Nou, while Bayern Munich, who also wanted to appoint Alonso, are identifying replacements for outgoing Thomas Tuchel.

Amorim refused to commit his future to Sporting beyond this season after being asked about the possibility of his departure.

After being asked on Friday if he could follow Alonso and entrust his future to his current employers, he replied: “No, I can’t guarantee it.”

“I don’t want to talk too much about my future. But I won’t argue or put pressure on Sporting, I owe the club a lot.