da bet7： Liverpool did not truly believe they would be able to convince Xabi Alonso to join them this summer with the Bayer Leverkusen boss focused in Germany.

da bwin： Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Alonso had been key target to replace KloppBut focused on task in GermanyAmorim emerges as new favouriteWHAT HAPPENED?

Alonso had been the Reds' main target to replace Klopp given his success with Leverkusen and the Liverpool fans' affinity with their former Spanish midfielder. Yet, have reported that the Anfield hierarchy never really believed they had a chance of coaxing Alonso to Anfield this summer and the news that he would be remaining in Germany only confirmed their initial understandings.

Advertisement(C)Getty ImagesTHE EXPLANATION

The report explains that when Liverpool first contacted Alonso's representatives, they were told that he was concentrating on leading Leverkusen to an unlikely first-ever Bundesliga title and it was unlikely he would be leaving the potential champions in the summer.

In fact, the success Alonso has brought at Leverkusen also convinced him to remain in his post. The Spaniard is intent on leading his team in the Champions League next season and wishes to continue to develop as a coach in Germany.

WHAT ALONSO SAID

Alonso's comments on his decision to remain at Leverkusen offer a greater understanding of why Liverpool never held out hope of securing their man. He said: "We have had a lot of speculation regarding my future. I wanted to use the international break to reflect and take a decision. Last week, I had a very good meeting and informed the club my decision to continue being coach.

"My job is not over here. I feel this is the right place for me to be and develop as a coach."

Getty WHAT NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL?

With the expectation that they wouldn't convince Alonso to join in mind, Liverpool have been working on identifying alternative options. Brighton's Roberto De Zerbi has long been linked to the job but Sporting CP's Ruben Amorim is emerging as the new frontrunner.