Xabi Alonso wants Liverpool to sign "quality" Real Madrid star as he closes in on Reds job | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is getting increasingly close to the Liverpool job and wants Arda Guler as one of his first signings.

Guler has shown himself to be a hugely exciting young talent during his time at the Bernabeu, and it seems he left a real impression on Alonso.

The Spanish tactician ended up being sacked after just 34 games in charge of Real Madrid this season, but his fine work at previous club Bayer Leverkusen and his ties with Liverpool from his playing days look like making him a strong candidate for the Reds.

And if he is to replace the struggling Arne Slot, it seems he’d be eager to bring Guler with him to Anfield, according to Fichajes.

What Xabi Alonso has said about Arda Guler in the past

Alonso was full of praise for Guler’s “quality” earlier this season as he discussed how the Turkey international reminded him of a cross between Mesut Ozil and Guti.

“Not just because of his origins, but because of his quality. He’s a mix between Ozil and Guti, because Guti could also play close to the crease while also providing that final pass,” Alonso said, as quoted by Goal.

“The more we find Arda, the better we do. We have to keep pushing him to improve his game, but I’m happy.”

Would Arda Guler strengthen Liverpool?

It could make sense for Guler to work under Alonso again, and LFC will surely be looking to make changes in the attacking midfield department this summer.

With four goals and 12 assists for Real this season, the 21-year-old looks like the kind of creative talent who could take the burden off Florian Wirtz in that area of the pitch, and provide more ammunition for the likes of Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike to thrive.

Guler would surely not come cheap as he’s performed well for Madrid, but it could be a good investment in a top young talent.

There might be more proven options out there, but few fans would be complaining if Guler ended up joining and forming part of a new-look side under Alonso.