According to reports, Liverpool have hatched an ‘unexpected plan’ as they look to replace Real Madrid-bound Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The Reds have surpassed expectations this term as they are clear at the top of the Premier League table, but Arne Slot’s second season could be more difficult with a significant squad overhaul possible this summer.
Liverpool need upgrades in various positions and may also be forced to sign replacements for Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, who are in the final few months of their contract.
Alexander-Arnold has always been the most likely of the three players to leave amid the benefit of his age and interest from Real Madrid, who are in the market for a younger right-back to be Dani Carvajal’s long-term replacement.
Earlier this week, a report claimed Alexander-Arnold has reached an ‘agreement’ with Real Madrid to join the La Liga giants on a free transfer.
READ: FSG Out? Seven Liverpool mistakes include Alexander-Arnold and the European Super League
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano subsequently claimed Liverpool believes the “next big thing” is ready to replace Alexander-Arnold.
Romano said: “In terms of right-back, what I’m hearing is that they are very happy with Conor Bradley. They believe that Conor Bradley can be part of this future Liverpool squad. They believe he’s a huge talent.
“The responsibility of being the starting right-back at Liverpool is going to be completely different, but they feel this boy has everything in place in order to become an important player for Arne Slot.”
He added: “Let’s see what they do on the market. But Conor Bradley internally is considered the next big thing at right back and they fully trust him for the future.”
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Despite this, a new report from Football Insider claims Liverpool have an ‘unexpected plan’ with FSG ‘let down’ by Bradley amid one concern with Bayer Leverkusen star Jeremie Frimpong considered an ‘ideal replacement’.
‘Liverpool aren’t giving Conor Bradley any guarantees that he’ll succeed Trent Alexander-Arnold as their first-choice right-back, sources have told Football Insider.
‘Alexander-Arnold’s inevitable exit to Real Madrid has been agreed by both parties as he prepares to leave Anfield on a free transfer this summer, and the Reds are moving quickly to line up his successor.
‘Liverpool are planning on delving into the transfer market to bring in competition for Bradley; the Northern Irishman having been unlucky with injuries.
‘While Bradley will hope he’s the first option to start on the right of the Reds’ defence next term, Liverpool have their sights set on Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong as the man to succeed Alexnader-Arnold.
‘Bradley would indeed be given the first crack at replacing Alexander-Arnold, but his injury worries may see Liverpool higher-ups doubt whether he can step up to the plate week-in, week-out.
‘As a result, it’s no surprise to see the Reds identify Frimpong as an ideal replacement after Alexander-Arnold’s exit, though the pair also have question marks over their defensive capabilities in common.’