12 September 2023 , 04:00
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Liverpool have started the Premier League season in fine form, but will now face a nervy few weeks as Germany search for a new manager.
Reds boss Jurgen Klopp has long been seen as the dream target to eventually take on the job of leading his country. He only signed a new contract at Anfield last year, but the chance to lead Germany in a home tournament at Euro 2024 is tantalising.
Liverpool chiefs may now be forced to consider a succession plan in the event Klopp moves on, with the Premier League set to return on Saturday. Here, Mirror Football rounds up the latest Liverpool news.
Klopp succession plan prepared
Liverpool bosses could turn to Xabi Alonso as their main target to replace Jurgen Klopp if he opts to take on the Germany job. Klopp's national team decided to sack Hansi Flick following a thrashing at the hands of Japan over the weekend.
Steven Gerrard had long been seen as Klopp's natural successor, but the Reds legend's managerial career has faltered and he is no longer seen as a viable option. Instead, Alonso is earning plaudits for his work at Bayer Leverkusen.
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He recently renewed his contract with the Bundesliga side, though it does contain a 'secret agreement' which enables Alonso to leave his current role without breaking contract if a suitable opportunity, such as at Liverpool, were to present itself.
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Matip replacement identified
Joel Matip looks to be on his way out of Liverpool (Liverpool FC via Getty Images)Liverpool have identified West Ham Nayef Aguerd as their top replacement for Joel Matip. Centre-back Matip, 32, is expected to leave Anfield at the end of his contract next summer, having fallen down the pecking order on Merseyside.
An overhaul of the defence is expected at the end of the season, with Matip almost certainly on his way. That will open up a space in Liverpool's options at centre-back ahead of next season.
And Reds chiefs are keeping a close eye on Aguerd, who joined the Hammers last year from Rennes. After winning the Europa Conference League and helping Morocco to the semi-finals of the World Cup, the 27-year-old's standing is high.
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Reds face injury crisis
Jurgen Klopp is facing an injury crisis in defence, with both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ibrahima Konate doubtful to face Wolves on Saturday. Konate missed Liverpool's last two games before the international break with a thigh injury and was not called up by France.
Alexander-Arnold limped out of the Reds' win over Aston Villa and subsequently dropped out of the England squad for the games against Ukraine and Scotland. With Virgil van Dijk still suspended, Klopp is now sweating on the fitness of the duo.
If Alexander-Arnold and Konate are both out, Klopp may have to experiment with his backline. He will also hope that Andy Robertson comes through Scotland's clash with England unscathed.
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