Juergen Klopp is expected at Anfield today as the German edges closer to becoming Brendan Rodgers’s successor at Liverpool, while Carlo Ancelotti has ruled himself out of contention.

Juergen Klopp is reportedly in advanced talks with Fenway Sports Group president Mike Gordon and Liverpool Chief Executive Ian Ayre and is planning to fly to England to complete negotiations ahead of his highly anticipated move, reports said yesterday.

Former Real Madrid and Chelsea manager Ancelotti, who was also linked with the job, has told reporters he would return to management, but only next season.

“I enjoy my time now but, of course, I want to come back to manage – to work – because it is my passion,” the 56-year-old Italian said in London.

“I want to take my time to rest, but next season I am ready.”

The fiery Klopp, twice a Bundesliga champion with Borussia Dortmund, who he also steered to the Champions League final in 2013, has made no secret of his desire to work in England.

The charismatic German forged his reputation by turning 1997 Champions League winners Dortmund, who were relegation candidates under predecessor Thomas Doll, into one of the most exciting brands in football.

He left the Ruhr valley club in May after seven years to take a break from football after finishing seventh in the Bundesliga.

Known for his wit and exuberance as much as for his high pressing and quick counter-attacking football, Klopp is reportedly willing to curtail his sabbatical to revive Liverpool’s fortunes and is on the verge of committing to a three-year contract.

He has also asked to bring former assistants Zeljko Buvac, called the ‘brains’ behind Dortmund’s success, and Peter Krawietz in as part of his coaching staff.

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