Jurgen Klopp is reportedly in advanced discussions to become the technical director for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, a development that contradicts recent assurances from his agent, Marc Kosicke. The news suggests a potential shift for the former Liverpool manager, who only departed Anfield in the summer of 2024 after nearly nine years at the helm.

Klopp, 58, is currently serving as Red Bull’s Head of Global Football, a role he is contracted for until 2029. In this position, he oversees football operations across Red Bull’s extensive network of clubs, including RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, and teams in Brazil, the USA, and Japan.

Al-Ittihad’s pursuit and agent’s denial

The talks with Al-Ittihad are said to be more advanced than Klopp’s camp has publicly acknowledged. Just a week ago, his agent, Marc Kosicke, firmly dismissed any speculation regarding a move to the Saudi club. “That’s out of the question,” Kosicke stated, as reported by Goal.com.

However, Sky Sport’s transfer insider, Sacha Tavolieri, claims that discussions have resumed within the last 24 hours. Al-Ittihad is reportedly keen to bring Klopp in as a technical director, a role that would focus on overseeing the club’s transfer strategy rather than day-to-day coaching duties.

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Red Bull tensions and transfer window timing

The reports of a potential move come amidst surfacing rumours of internal fallouts within the Red Bull football empire in recent months. According to Goal.com, citing L’Equipe, disagreements emerged in March, with points of contention including the appointment of Ole Werner as Leipzig coach and Klopp’s perceived lack of influence in Paris FC’s managerial search, where Antoine Kombouaré was eventually appointed. Red Bull holds more than a 10% stake in Paris FC.

Klopp has previously stated he would not leave Red Bull until at least after the transfer window closes. This timing is particularly pertinent given the differing schedules of global transfer markets:

• The Bundesliga transfer window runs from June 30 to September 1.

• The Middle East transfer window opens on July 22 and remains open until October 12.

• This extended Saudi window could provide a longer timeframe for any potential negotiations or a move, aligning with Klopp’s stated position.

Before taking his current role at Red Bull, Klopp had been linked with several high-profile positions following his departure from Liverpool. Real Madrid was frequently mentioned as a potential destination, with defeated presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme promising to pursue Klopp if elected. Speculation also arose about a sensational return to Liverpool after the dismissal of Arne Slot, though the Merseyside club ultimately appointed former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraiola.

Sources: www.goal.com

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