XABI ALONSO has emerged as Tottenham’s No1 managerial target, according to reports in the Netherlands.
The Spaniard took charge of Bayer Leverkusen last year, having previously managed Real Sociedad’s B Team.
He has impressed since taking charge, guiding his side to sixth in the Bundesliga and the Europa League semi-finals.
According to Dutch paper De Telegraaf, Alonso is favoured over Feyenoord boss Arne Slot for the Spurs job.
They claim that the North Londoners are impressed with Alonso’s resume, dating back to his playing days with Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
Feyenoord, meanwhile, are desperate to keep Slot on for another season.
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The 44-year-old, who is on the verge of winning the Eredivisie title, has been linked with Chelsea and Tottenham – as well as Crystal Palace.
He could be offered a bumper new deal to stay on at Feyenoord next year as they enter the Champions League.
Spurs, meanwhile, have also been strongly linked with Julian Nagelsmann.
SunSport revealed last night that chairman Daniel Levy has reservations over the German’s age.
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At 35, Nagelsmann is younger than current skipper Hugo Lloris, 36.
Another potential stumbling block is the uncertainty surrounding Tottenham’s director of football situation.
Fabio Paratici resigned last month after his worldwide football ban was upheld following an appeal.
Nagelsmann would want clarity regarding who will be overseeing recruitment and strategy.
Vincent Kompany and Brendan Rodgers have also been mentioned as candidates, as well as Ange Postecoglou, Luis Enrique and Roberto De Zerbi.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
