Liverpool have opened discussions with Andoni Iraola over the possibility of taking charge at Anfield following the dismissal of Arne Slot, according to reports from Sky Sports.
The recruitment process is being overseen by sporting director Richard Hughes, who played a key role in bringing Iraola to Bournemouth in 2023 before making the switch to Liverpool a year later.
Following Slot’s departure on Saturday, Sky Sports News reported that Iraola had emerged as the leading candidate for the vacancy, with formal negotiations expected to begin this week.
Those talks are now under way.
Liverpool’s hierarchy are focused on securing a manager whose football philosophy aligns closely with the club’s long-term vision and preferred style of play.
While the Reds are keen to appoint a new head coach swiftly, they are determined to conduct a thorough process to ensure they make the right choice.
At this stage, the club have not contacted any potential backroom staff candidates. Decisions regarding coaching appointments are expected to be considered only if discussions with Iraola progress to an advanced stage.
Iraola enjoys a strong working relationship with Hughes, who specifically targeted the Spaniard during his tenure at Bournemouth.
The move proved successful, with Iraola guiding the Cherries to one of the most impressive campaigns in the club’s history.
Bournemouth ended the 2025/26 Premier League season in sixth place, securing qualification for the Europa League after embarking on an outstanding 18-match unbeaten run in the second half of the campaign.
They finished just three points behind Liverpool in the final standings.
