Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly close to an agreement with former Ajax and Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag as their new helmsman should Xabi Alonso be leaving after the season.
Kicker sports magazine said on Friday that talks with 55-year-old Dutchman ten Hag were at an advanced stage, with Leverkusen interested in a smooth transition like in the past.
Alonso has been linked with a move to Real Madrid where he formerly was a player and where Carlo Ancelotti is expected not to last beyond the season.
Alonso has been at Leverkusen since October 2021 and led them to a historic unbeaten Bundesliga and German Cup double last season.