Bayern Munich keen to beat Liverpool to Xabi Alonso appointment with Thomas

The top stories and transfer rumours from Friday’s newspapers…

THE TIMES

Thomas Tuchel is increasingly likely to be removed from his role as Bayern Munich head coach in the summer, with the Bundesliga side keen to jump ahead of Liverpool in the race to tempt Xabi Alonso away from Bayer Leverkusen.

Steve Borthwick has used his first England A squad to try and capture a number of dual-qualified players, including Exeter’s Josh Iosefa-Scott and Gloucester scrum-half Caolan Englefield.

Leigh Leopards back Zak Hardaker has been banned from driving for a second time, this time for three years, after overturning his car in Knottingley, West Yorkshire, while driving way over the speed limit and legal limit on alcohol.

DAILY MAIL

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have already sounded out potential investment partners at home and abroad as they seek funds to redevelop Manchester United’s historic Old Trafford stadium, with the group now leaning away from using a nearby site.

Jose Mourinho has revealed he rejected the chance to take over as England manager back in 2007, with a contract offer on the table, before Fabio Capello eventually took over.

Manchester United may not need a huge squad overhaul in the summer, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe reported to have been impressed by four of their younger squad members – Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo and Diogo Dalot – that he can build around.

Manchester United’s players and staff could hear from Kenyan marathon runners and New Zealand rugby union stars as the club’s new investors seek to bring “marginal gains” into football after consistent success in cycling.

Brighton are drawing up contingency plans to make sure they are ready if head coach Roberto De Zerbi departs at the end of the season for one of a number of high-profile vacancies coming up.

Arsenal forward Gabriel…