Liverpool news: Arne Slot sack decision made as Xabi Alonso receives green light

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Daily Express or go back to LFC Live.

Arne Slot has been under increased pressure at Liverpool, with Xabi Alonso currently a free agent. Xabi Alonso has been touted as a potential replacement for Arne Slot at Liverpool (Image: Getty Images)Liverpool travel to Aston Villa on Friday evening knowing that victory could all but seal their place in Champions League football next season.

Yet the 47-year-old is understood to still retain the support of Fenway Sports Group, the club's owners, given that Slot masterminded Liverpool's remarkable Premier League title win last season. Meanwhile, remarks Alonso has made regarding a Premier League return have come back into the spotlight.Slot has confirmed he has been involved in talks with Liverpool's hierarchy to plan next season, despite the uncertainty surrounding him.

The Dutchman has revealed he has been in discussions with the club's sporting director, Richard Hughes, about summer signings.When quizzed about the club's summer plans ahead of Liverpool's visit to Villa on Friday, Slot appeared initially hesitant to address his future, responding: "We know where we go on tour", with Liverpool due to head to the USA this summer for three pre-season fixtures.Slot then added: "Plans have been made, talks have been ongoing between the club and new players, and I am involved in that if that's what you want to know."When pressed on whether he would remain at the club next season, he said: "I don't think I'm deciding that alone, but I have every reason to believe I will be Liverpool manager next season. That is how things work nowadays if you don't win the league."Alonso's Chelsea green lightRemarks made by former Liverpool star Alonso regarding a return to the Premier League have resurfaced following his reported links to the Chelsea managerial vacancy.