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Liverpool Face the Challenge of Replacing a Generational Talent
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future at Liverpool is in doubt, with Real Madrid reportedly keen to secure his signature on a free transfer. Losing their homegrown star would leave Liverpool with a monumental task of replacing one of the most unique full-backs in football.
While no player can truly replicate what Alexander-Arnold brings to the table, Liverpool may need to explore potential replacements. Here are five candidates ranked in order of their suitability.
Slot knows Geertruida well from their time together at Feyenoord, where the Dutch defender captained the side. Now at RB Leipzig, Geertruida has showcased his versatility, performing across the backline under Marco Rose.
Slot would need to tweak Liverpool’s system significantly to accommodate Geertruida, given his more conservative style compared to Alexander-Arnold. However, his reliability and familiarity with Slot’s tactics make him an intriguing option.
4. Joshua Kimmich
Joshua Kimmich’s best performances in recent seasons have come as a right-back, including a strong run under Thomas Tuchel in 2023/24. While currently playing midfield under Vincent Kompany, Kimmich still possesses the passing range and intelligence that could somewhat replicate Alexander-Arnold’s creative impact.
However, Kimmich has expressed a preference for a midfield role, and convincing him to join Liverpool as a right-back could be a challenge. Despite this, his leadership and technical quality would be invaluable if Liverpool can lure him to Anfield.
3. Jeremie Frimpong
Frimpong has thrived under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, delivering consistently dynamic performances as a wing-back. His attacking output, including 14 goals in all competitions last season, highlights his potential impact in the final third.
Slot would need to adapt Liverpool’s system to accommodate Frimpong, who operates best as an overlapping wing-back rather than a deep-lying playmaker. However, his energy and goal threat could bring a different dimension to Liverpool’s attack.
2. Pedro Porro
Pedro Porro’s profile aligns closely with Alexander-Arnold’s. The Spaniard is a gifted technician, capable of unlocking defenses with his passing range. While questions have been raised about his defensive reliability, Porro has shown he can be effective at both ends of the pitch.
Despite enduring a tough 2024/25 season, largely due to overexertion, Porro’s Premier League experience and stylistic similarities to Trent make him a compelling candidate. Slot’s system could help Porro rediscover his best form.
1. Conor Bradley
Liverpool’s academy graduate Conor Bradley might be the answer they need. Bradley has stepped up impressively when called upon, demonstrating maturity and consistency in all phases of play.
Defensively robust and effective in advanced areas, Bradley aligns well with Slot’s current framework. While he may lack Alexander-Arnold’s passing range, his combination play and energy make him a standout candidate to take over the right-back role.
Promoting Bradley could also allow Liverpool to focus their summer transfer efforts on bolstering other areas of the squad.
Conclusion
Replacing a player as unique as Trent Alexander-Arnold is an unenviable task, but Liverpool have several viable options to consider. Whether they opt for an external signing or promote from within, the decision could shape their future success.
