Tottenham are said to have begun formal talks with Xabi Alonso, with the former Liverpool midfielder reportedly keen to take over from Thomas Frank.

Tottenham are reportedly in formal discussions with Xabi Alonso about succeeding Thomas Frank as head coach, with the former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder understood to be open to the move.

Alonso officially departed Real Madrid on Monday night following their defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup at the weekend. Madrid also trail their rivals by four points in the La Liga title race, a position widely considered unacceptable at the Bernabéu.

In a club statement, Real Madrid confirmed that the decision to part ways with Alonso was reached by mutual agreement, praising his impact and legacy while wishing him and his coaching staff the best going forward.

In the wake of his exit, Tottenham have stepped up efforts to lure Alonso to north London as pressure continues to build on Thomas Frank. Spurs have managed just one win in their last seven games, and reports suggest the club’s hierarchy is split over whether to make a change in the dugout.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Tottenham have opened formal negotiations with Alonso, whose standing remains high among the club’s owners despite his recent departure from Madrid. The report adds that Alonso has strong support from Spurs’ senior figures, who feel his footballing philosophy aligns well with the current squad.

Talks are believed to be moving in a positive direction, with both sides keen to strike a deal that could see Alonso in charge before the end of the winter period. Landing a coach of his calibre would be a significant statement of ambition from Tottenham.

Former Spurs midfielder Jermaine Jenas has also weighed in on Frank’s situation, suggesting recent displays and player reactions point to mounting problems within the squad during matches.