Liverpool have reached agreement to appoint Andoni Iraola as their new head coach, sources confirmed to ESPN. The Spaniard is expected to be officially confirmed by the end of the week following positive discussions with sporting director Richard Hughes, who also appointed Iraola at AFC Bournemouth in 2023.

The Anfield hierarchy is targeting a more aggressive style of football following the dismissal of Arne Slot. Iraola became the leading candidate based on his impressive work at Bournemouth, where he led them to a sixth-place finish last term. He is set to sign a two-year deal, consistent with his preference for short-term contracts throughout his coaching career.

Liverpool great Steven Gerrard has backed Iraola for the job, telling TNT Sports: "I think he's done a fabulous job at Bournemouth. I think his style would suit Liverpool." Slot was dismissed after two seasons, having won the Premier League title in his first campaign but finishing fifth this term, prompting the managerial reset at Anfield.