David Ornstein shares the latest news on Xabi Alonso, Arne Slot, and a key Liverpool player.
David Ornstein has shared an important update about Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot, the chances of Xabi Alonso stepping in, and the contract situation with Ibrahima Konate.
Slot has faced growing pressure recently as Liverpool’s results have slipped. The team still needs to earn three points from their last two Premier League games — away at Aston Villa and at home against Brentford — to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League.
At Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Anfield, Slot was booed by fans and received criticism, especially for taking winger Rio Ngumoha off the pitch. Slot later explained that Ngumoha was suffering from cramp before he was substituted.
Xabi Alonso, a former Liverpool midfielder, has been linked with replacing Slot if Liverpool decide to make a change. However, Ornstein reported on Monday that Chelsea are actually looking into hiring Alonso as their new head coach.
Speaking on NBC before the Tottenham vs. Leeds match, Ornstein shared Liverpool’s perspective on Alonso. “My information is that Xabi Alonso is not being considered at Liverpool at all,” he said. “Liverpool fully plan to keep Arne Slot as their head coach next season.
“They want to strengthen the team for Slot, especially in the wing positions, which they see as very important. So, they’re planning to be busy in the transfer market this summer.”
Regarding center-back Ibrahima Konate, whose contract is ending soon, Ornstein said talks are ongoing but the outlook is not very positive for him staying. “Right now, things are at a standstill, and it’s not looking great for a deal. But until someone walks away, there’s still hope the talks could have a good ending at Anfield.”
Ornstein also mentioned that Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes, who has two years left on his contract, is fully committed to the club and leading Liverpool into next season.
“There have been rumors linking him with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League,” Ornstein said, “but nothing has been agreed so far.”