Liverpool are in advanced discussions with Andoni Iraola as the club moves swiftly to appoint a new head coach following the departure of Arne Slot.
The former Bournemouth manager has emerged as the clear frontrunner for the position, with Liverpool keen to finalise an appointment as soon as possible ahead of preparations for the new season.
Iraola left Bournemouth at the end of the 2025-26 campaign after enhancing his reputation with an impressive spell on the south coast. The 43-year-old Spaniard is highly regarded for his attacking philosophy and aggressive pressing style, qualities that align closely with Liverpool’s footballing vision.
The Anfield hierarchy are understood to be prioritising a manager capable of delivering front-foot football while maintaining the club’s competitive ambitions at both domestic and European level.
Tommy Elphick Could Follow Iraola To Anfield
Should Iraola complete the move to Merseyside, he is expected to push for the appointment of trusted assistant Tommy Elphick as part of his backroom staff.
Elphick worked alongside Iraola at Bournemouth and has developed a strong coaching partnership with the Spaniard. The former Cherries captain is also a lifelong Liverpool supporter, making the opportunity particularly appealing.
While no formal approach has yet been made to Elphick, sources indicate he would be interested in joining Liverpool if an offer materialises.
The 38-year-old recently rejected the chance to become Bristol City manager as he considered other opportunities for the next stage of his coaching career.
Liverpool’s search is being overseen by sporting director Richard Hughes, who previously worked closely with Iraola during their time together at Bournemouth and is believed to be a strong admirer of the Spaniard’s methods.
The club’s urgency to secure a replacement comes after the decision to part ways with Slot, just one year after he guided Liverpool to the Premier League title.
With talks progressing positively, Iraola now appears increasingly likely to become the next man tasked with leading Liverpool into a new era at Anfield.
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