Liverpool target Roberto De Zerbi makes feelings clear after talks with Bayern Munich

Roberto De Zerbi is ‘flattered’ by interest from Bayern Munich – but the sought-after Italian coach is in no rush to make a decision over his long-term future.

De Zerbi, 44, has established himself as one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches since replacing Graham Potter at Brighton back in September 2022. And unfortunately for the Seagulls, De Zerbi’s exploits in the Premier League, including guiding the club to a first-ever European campaign, have not gone unnoticed elsewhere.

With a host of elite clubs set to be in the market for a new head coach in the summer, De Zerbi has been touted as a viable contender for a host of jobs including a potential role at Liverpool, who will lose the services of Jurgen Klopp at the end of the season.

Bayern Munich are another club who have been credited with an interest in De Zerbi, with Bild now claiming that the German giants have even held talks with the Brighton boss. It’s noted, though, that Xabi Alonso remains their No.1 target.

While De Zerbi is said to be ‘fascinated’ by the prospect of succeeding Thomas Tuchel at the Allianz Arena, he is planning to keep all his options open and is not expected to rush any decision over his future with further interest in his services expected in the summer.

Intriguingly, Liverpool are also considering Alonso alongside De Zerbi, who has reportedly been shortlisted for the upcoming vacancy at Anfield. New sporting director Richard Hughes, appointed by the returning Michael Edwards, will be tasked with deciding who is the right man to follow in Klopp’s footsteps.

It’s understood that Alonso is also Liverpool’s primary target as a result of his impressive body of work at Bayer Leverkusen. Other coaches, like De Zerbi and Ruben Amorim, are still on the club’s radar as Klopp’s rein draws to a close.

Honorary Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness recently admitted that the reigning Bundesliga champions are doing everything they can to lure Alonso back to his old stomping ground. Leverkusen remain hopeful that the Spaniard will shun interest from two of his former clubs to remain in his post for next season.

He told Ran Sport: “Clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, Leverkusen and FC Bayern are working on it. He’s proven that he can be a coach for the big time.”

Like Klopp, Alonso has a chance to win the domestic title with Leverkusen currently well clear of Bayern Munich. Liverpool are behind Arsenal in the Premier League title race but only on goal difference ahead of the final 10 matches of the season.