Bayer Leverkusen are believed to be in advanced negotiations to name Erik ten Hag as their next head coach as the exit of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid is all but ascertained. Kicker reports that the talks with Ten Hag are either near to, or have fully reached, a conclusion as Leverkusen plan for an uncomplicated managerial handover.
Madrid have been heavily linked with a move for Alonso since last season and, with increased signals from the BayArena that his future is elsewhere, Leverkusen have been quick to finalise a contingency plan.
Ten Hag, 55, has been without a job since Manchester United parted ways with him in October. Even though he endured a tough time at Old Trafford, he clinched the FA Cup and EFL Cup in two seasons meaning he joined this special group of United managers who have won more than one trophy.
The Dutch man first shot to fame at the helm of Ajax, whom he guided to three Eredivisie crowns, two KNVB Cups and the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2019. He also has experience in German football, having worked as head coach of Bayern Munich II when Pep Guardiola was in charge.
Leverkusen are second in the Bundesliga and Ten Hag’s arrival represents a fresh start for the club after a positive era under Alonso.
