Why Arne Slot didn't join Tottenham as Liverpool make Jurgen Klopp replacement decision

Liverpool have taken a huge step towards finally finding a replacement for Jurgen Klopp, who's set to leave at the end of the season. Xabi Alonso first emerged as the favourite to fill the prospective manager vacancy at Anfield before committing his future to Bayer Leverkusen, forcing the Reds to expand their hunt for a head coach.

The likes of Ruben Amorim and Roberto De Zerbi have been mooted as potential candidates to take the reins at Liverpool, but a new frontrunner has emerged – none other than Arne Slot. According to The Athletic, the Reds have made the Dutchman their preferred choice to succeed Klopp.

The report states that Liverpool have already opened talks with Feyenoord. The Athletic add that Slot is 'enthusiastic about a potential move' and there are still other targets on the club's list.

After leading the Rotterdam-based outfit to their first Eredivisie title in six years last season, the 45-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur before opting to sign a three-year contract extension at De Kuip. So, the Lilywhites appointed Ange Postecoglou instead.

Speaking to the official club website, Slot explained why he snubbed Spurs. He said: "I'm not done here yet. We have had a wonderful season with Feyenoord, with the championship as a wonderful reward for all the hard work that has been put in, but I really want to continue building.

"After the summer, an adventure awaits in the Champions League and there is a national title to defend. Enough to look forward to, so I am proud to be and remain Feyenoord's trainer in Rotterdam."

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While Slot hasn't managed to retain Feyenoord's crown as Dutch champions this season, with PSV Eindhoven are just one win away from glory, he still managed to get his hands on some silverware. They defeated NEC Nijmegen in the KNVB Cup final at the weekend, with club's general and technical director commenting on the former Spurs target's future.

Speaking to ESPN, as quoted by Dutch publication Voetball International, Dennis te Kloese said: "I think it is logical that he is in such a good position. It is very special how he has manifested himself in recent years and has really given Feyenoord a face.

"We responded by extending his contract. In any case, we assume that he will also be our trainer next year. We have experienced this situation before and will take good care of our own interests."