Bayern Munich identify Barcelona managerial target as their Plan B

Roberto De Zerbi is on the list of several top clubs in Europe as a managerial candidate heading into the summer, including FC Barcelona.

With Xavi Hernandez set to step down at the end of the season, the 44-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion is being considered as an option by the Blaugrana.

In fact, several reports have suggested that the Italian tactician is the best placed to replace Xavi at this point, although a final decision is yet to be made.

Bayern Munich also eyeing De Zerbi

Now, though, Bayern Munich have also entered the race for Roberto De Zerbi and see him as an alternative to their first-choice manager, Xabi Alonso, reports Florian Plettenberg.

The Bundesliga champions will also be changing managers at the end of the season, having reached an agreement with Thomas Tuchel to part ways.

As things stand, Xabi Alonso of Bayer Leverkusen is the Bavarians’ preferred candidate to succeed the German.

Man in demand. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

But in case their pursuit of the former Real Madrid midfielder does not pan out, Bayern Munich see De Zerbi as Plan B.

€15 million release clause an issue

As has been reported earlier, Barcelona officials rate De Zerbi highly for the way his teams play as well as his ability to nurture and develop young talents.

However, he has a long-term contract at Brighton, which includes a €15 million release clause. The Blaugrana have no intention of paying that amount though which could pose a hurdle for them if they decide to go down the De Zerbi route.

But he is not the only name under consideration as the likes of Hansi Flick, Julian Nagelsmann, and even Tuchel are seen as potential candidates.