Nottingham Forest "discussed" hiring Xabi Alonso to replace head coach Steve Cooper, it has been reported.
Alonso was among the names discussed as possible alternatives last Friday, when Cooper's future at the City Ground was in doubt. Rafa Benitez was also discussed but the former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss was holding out for a more high-profile job.
That's according to the Daily Mail, who say Alonso was discussed "via intermediaries". The former central midfielder has since been appointed manager of Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen.
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It was confirmed on Friday morning that Cooper has penned a fresh three-year deal with the club, despite reports claiming the offer was off the table.
It is reported that owner Evangelos Marinakis was never convinced about sacking Cooper but recognised a need for change. That's when the appointment of new sporting director Filippo Giraldi was initiated.
Speaking yesterday, Cooper said: "It's good there's clarity to the contract situation. There have been a lot of questions over the last weeks and this puts an end to that.
"It's given us and me a real chance to show how good we can be. We're all feeling the difference of being in the Premier League and it's exciting. That is the real motivation, to get through this difficult run. The incredible support from the fans that make me even hungrier but we've got to do better.
"Everyone knows how much I'm loving my time here and how important it is to me. My real focus is about winning on Monday against Aston Villa. We are on a poor run and we can't hide from it.
"It's brilliant to sign but nothing has really changed in terms of my work, and making sure every day we try to be ready for the next game. We have to do better, the fans deserve better, and that's really where my focus is.
"I'll give all I've got to try to succeed and there are some things that need sorting in terms of results and performances."
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