The possibility of Liverpool losing Trent Alexander-Arnold is growing more likely, with Real Madrid already planning a second approach after their initial bid was rejected on New Year’s Eve. While Liverpool is determined not to sell the 26-year-old right-back in January, they may struggle to keep him beyond this season. With just six months remaining on his contract, Alexander-Arnold is now free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with Real Madrid, which could become a viable option if the Reds hold firm. Although Liverpool remains hopeful that he will sign a new deal, they may soon have to consider potential replacements.
Here are 5 players that the Reds could consider as his replacement:
- Jeremie Frimpong: He has frequently been mentioned as a potential replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold due to his attacking prowess. Last month, Christian Falk from Bild reported that Liverpool had invited Frimpong’s agent to Anfield during the Reds’ Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen, confirming the club’s interest. Talks have reportedly already taken place with the player’s representatives. Frimpong has been a standout performer in Xabi Alonso’s record-breaking team, although his role as a wing-back in Alonso’s system may not align with the defensive style that Arne Slot has worked on with Alexander-Arnold.
2. Michael Kayode: He may not be a well known name, but the 20-year-old has been attracting Premier League interest, with Corriere dello Sport reporting that Liverpool could sign him as early as this month. An Italy U21 international, Kayode had a breakthrough season at Fiorentina last year, making 37 appearances, including 31 starts. However, his progress has slowed this season, with only 12 appearances and just seven starts. While signing Kayode could be seen as a gamble, Liverpool may be willing to bring him in given the solid development of Conor Bradley, allowing Kayode time to grow before competing for a regular spot in the team.
3. Joshua Kimmich: He could be another intriguing option, potentially available on a free transfer at the end of the season. While he might not be the most conventional replacement for Alexander-Arnold, the Bayern Munich star is capable of playing both right-back and defensive midfielder. At 29, soon to turn 30 Kimmich doesn’t necessarily meet the typical age profile that FSG usually seeks, but his proven top-class ability could make him an exception. Even if Liverpool only secures a few years from him, Kimmich could provide valuable experience to support Conor Bradley’s development during that time.
4. Vanderson: He may not be a name many Liverpool fans are familiar with yet, but the 23-year-old right-back has been impressing since his move to Monaco from Gremio in 2022. With four caps for Brazil after debuting internationally in 2023, Vanderson presents a promising long-term option. Caught Offside reported in October that Liverpool was considering him as a potential replacement for Alexander-Arnold, with Rousing the Kop confirming the Reds were doing their “due diligence” on the player a month later.
5. Devyne Rensch: If Alexander-Arnold were to sign a pre-contract agreement with Real Madrid, Liverpool could find themselves without a transfer fee and face more limited options for a replacement. One potential target is Ajax’s 21-year-old Devyne Rensch, who is set to be out of contract at the end of the season. This would allow Liverpool to begin negotiations now and secure him for next season. Known for his conservative approach as a right-back, with the ability to also play center-back, Rensch has garnered interest from several clubs, including Liverpool, with positive feedback from their scouts, although there’s still a chance he could renew his contract with Ajax.
