When Trent Alexander-Arnold’s entourage had decided it was necessary and timely to confirm the news of his impending summer departure as a free agent to pastures new – expected to be Real Madrid, the boos rang around Anfield.
The announcement has divided the Premier League champions’ fanbase — a mixture of pride and pain for supporters. Once the embodiment of the club’s academy dreams, Alexander-Arnold is set to leave after more than a decade of redefining the right-back role.
More frustrating is the fact he has left for no fee in the peak of his powers, at a time where Arne Slot’s side shocked free bets to win the Premier League in the Dutchman’s first season.
From a local lad to vice-captain and Champions League winner, his impact on English football cannot be overstated. A unique playmaker from deep, Alexander-Arnold changed the expectations placed on a full-back. But sentiment turned sour in recent months, and now his departure threatens to overshadow a joyous period for the club as they parade the red ribbons around Merseyside.
With Slot preparing for life without one of Liverpool’s most transformative players, the question is simple but seismic: who replaces Trent?
Conor Bradley
The most seamless transition could come from within the corridors of the AXA training centre. Conor Bradley has impressed when called upon, combining defensive tenacity with attacking drive.
The Northern Irishman understands the demands of the role and the expectations of the shirt, having been moulded at Kirkby.
His crunching tackle on Kylian Mbappé during Liverpool’s 2–0 win over Real Madrid won over the Kop, and hinted at a mentality that fits the club’s identity.
While not a like-for-like replacement in terms of playmaking, Bradley offers positional awareness, defensive balance and long-term promise.
Jeremie Frimpong
Few full-backs in Europe have matched Jeremie Frimpong’s output in recent seasons. The Bayer Leverkusen wing-back recorded nine goals and seven assists as part of Xabi Alonso’s Bundesliga-winning side, showcasing electric pace and clinical final-third decision-making. But with the Spaniard moving on from Germany at the end of the season, Frimpong could leave the BayArena too.
A product of Manchester City’s academy, Frimpong now appears destined for a Premier League return, with Liverpool reportedly close to sealing a deal.
His prior experience in a wing-back system poses a tactical question: can he adapt to Slot’s back four? If so, Frimpong could be an explosive addition.
Tino Livramento
Tino Livramento’s reputation continues to rise, particularly after holding his own against Mohamed Salah in a cup final at Wembley.
Now thriving at Newcastle United, the 22-year-old blends composure, acceleration, and one-on-one defending – all qualities vital in a Slot system.
His versatility, being capable on both flanks, adds further appeal. However, Newcastle’s reluctance to sell to a direct rival may make this move complex. If a deal were possible, Liverpool would be gaining a defensively assured, technically sharp option.
Daniel Muñoz
Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz has quietly become one of the Premier League’s most effective attacking full-backs since arriving in south London.
No one in his position has scored more league goals than him this season, with four, and only two – including Alexander-Arnold – can better his assists.
The 28-year-old Colombian’s chemistry with international teammate Luis Díaz could offer Liverpool greater attacking fluency down the right.
While his age might limit long-term planning from John Henry and FSG’s ownership model, Muñoz presents a proven, dynamic short-term fix if the Reds can retain the title.
This is a submitted article by written by Joel Brown.
