Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim has already confirmed he has a “an idea” for the end of the season amid fresh links with a move to Liverpool.

Former Reds hero Xabi Alonso had been viewed as the clear frontrunner to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Anfield when the German calls an end to his tenure this summer.

Alonso, however, now looks set to stay at Bayer Leverkusen until 2025 at least as he looks to build on what looks like the club’s first ever Bundesliga title win.

As such, decision-makers on Merseyside may have to look elsewhere.

Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi has been touted as a potential candidate, alongside Amorim.

The 39-year-old has previously been considered by Chelsea, while Manchester United were also touted as a potential landing spot.

Amorim is viewed as one of the most exciting managers in European football after leading Sporting to their first title win in 19 years back in 2021.

While defending that title proved difficult, the Lisbon giants are on course to win the League again. They lead rivals by Benfica by a point and boast a game in hand ahead of a derby between the two next weekend.

Speaking back in November, Amorim said of his future: "We don’t know the future, it depends on the results.

"It has more to do with the general idea of ​​what we need as a team, extra pressure so we don’t hide.

"Regarding the future, I have an idea for the end of the season but I won’t say it now. But the results and the context take us to something different.