Roberto de Zerbi keeps his options open by refusing to commit to Brighton next term, with the in-demand boss linked with Liverpool and Bayern Munich vacancies

Roberto de Zerbi has refused to commit to Brighton next season amid increased speculation linking him with looming vacancies at Liverpool and Bayern Munich.

Brighton are at Anfield on Sunday in what has been billed as De Zerbi’s audition to succeed outgoing Reds manager Jurgen Klopp.

The Italian is a hot property after taking Brighton into Europe for the first time in their history in his first season.

Asked on Saturday if he could reassure Brighton fans that he will still be at the Amex next season, De Zerbi said: ‘I have not decided my future.’ De Zerbi, who has also been linked with Manchester United, has said he will not make any decision until he has spoken to Brighton owner Tony Bloom.

De Zerbi, 44, hailed as ‘one of the most influential managers in the last 20 years’ by Pep Guardiola, has a deal which runs to 2026.

De Zerbi said: ‘I want to speak with my club, I have a contract but the problem is not the contract — the problem is to find the same plan, the same target, the same vision for the future.

‘I want to speak with Tony to understand his plan and then we will take a decision together without problems.

‘I want to know what is the project because if I don’t feel comfortable, I can’t stay.

‘My relationship with my players and the fans can’t change depending on the future. What we have done is history and no one can forget it.’

De Zerbi guided Brighton to sixth in the Premier League last season and they are on course for another top-10 finish this term, despite one of the lowest wage bills in the top flight.

Speculation about Liverpool and Bayern Munich has grown after Bayer Leverkusen head coach and Anfield target Xabi Alonso committed his future to the Bundesliga leaders.

Bayern Munich, meanwhile, are also on the hunt for a new manager after deciding Thomas Tuchel can leave in the summer.

The best way De Zerbi can showcase his talent would be to ask questions of Liverpool on Sunday. He will have to do so without injured top scorer Joao Pedro and midfielder Billy Gilmour.