Liverpool open talks with Andoni Iraola over becoming head coach

• Spaniard is clear front-runner to replace Arne Slot

• Liverpool want to make hire before World Cup starts

Liverpool have opened formal talks with Andoni Iraola over succeeding Arne Slot as the club’s head coach.

Iraola is the clear frontrunner for the Anfield vacancy with his style of play fitting Liverpool’s criteria for the front-footed, aggressive approach they felt was lacking in Slot’s second season in charge. The Dutchman was sacked from his post on Saturday.