At 26, Alexander-Arnold is urging Liverpool to demonstrate greater ambition and sees a potential move to Real Madrid next summer as a chance to elevate his career.
He aims to win the Ballon d’Or but to achieve that; he needs to be part of a team that regularly wins the league or the Champions League. However, the defender hasn’t secured either trophy since he turned 22.
Liverpool is slowly realizing that the emotional connection of playing for his boyhood club may not be enough to keep him long-term. While the Reds are eager for him to sign a new deal, they know that once Alexander-Arnold enters the final six months of his contract in January, everything could change.
Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, is still working to retain Alexander-Arnold but would not be fulfilling his role if he wasn’t also scouting potential players to step in and take on the significant responsibility of replacing the right-back in Arne Slot’s team next season.
The Merseyside giants have been connected with several right-backs, and here are three potential candidates who could replace Alexander-Arnold in the Liverpool squad next summer.
Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen) – Top Choice to Replace Alexander-Arnold
Bayer Leverkusen managed to keep Frimpong last summer after his crucial role in the team’s successful 2023/24 campaign, where they lost just one match. His performances as a right wing-back helped Leverkusen win the league, attracting interest from top European clubs. Despite this, Xabi Alonso’s decision to remain at Leverkusen convinced Frimpong to stay. However, with Alonso now linked to the Real Madrid job, there’s a real chance Frimpong could move next summer. His attacking skills would be appealing to Liverpool, though he’s thrived as a wing-back, leaving questions about his defensive capabilities as a right-back in a back four. If Liverpool pursue him, Frimpong could cost around €50m.
Amar Dedic (Red Bull Salzburg)
Liverpool are likely to target a younger player who can develop into the right-back role if they decide to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold next season. Dedic, 22, is among those linked with a summer move to Anfield. The Bosnia-Herzegovinian has impressed this season at Red Bull Salzburg, catching the attention of clubs with his performances. He’s versatile enough to play on the left as well and has contributed four assists this season, showcasing the attacking threat that mirrors Alexander-Arnold’s style. Liverpool has been in touch with his representatives and is expected to continue monitoring his progress. While Dedic may not be a high-profile name, he fits the mold of the under-the-radar signings Liverpool have made in the past when building their title-winning team under Jurgen Klopp.
Michael Kayode (Fiorentina)
Kayode is another young right-back who made a strong impression last season after breaking into the Fiorentina first team, earning praise for his confident performances. However, he has faced more challenges this season, primarily featuring in cup matches and playing a limited role in Serie A. Despite this, Kayode remains a highly-rated talent with the potential to reach the top. Fiorentina expects him to regain form in the second half of the season and become more involved. Liverpool have been keeping an eye on him, with their scouts monitoring his progress. If they decide to move for him, he would be more of a surprise signing in the summer transfer window.
As Liverpool looks to the future and the potential replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, these young right-backs present intriguing options. From Frimpong’s attacking flair to Dedic’s versatility and Kayode’s raw potential, each player brings something unique to the table. While the Reds are still assessing their options, one thing is clear: any of these talents could be the next key piece in Liverpool’s defensive setup, whether as an immediate impact player or a long-term prospect. All eyes will be on the summer transfer window as it draws near who Klopp and his team ultimately choose to fill the monumental boots of Alexander-Arnold.
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