Anfield Index
·30 December 2024
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·30 December 2024
Liverpool’s transfer plans are heating up as speculation surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future intensifies. According to TEAMtalk, the Reds are actively preparing for life without their iconic right-back by targeting Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong and Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. With Alexander-Arnold reportedly edging closer to a free transfer to Real Madrid, Arne Slot’s side are making decisive moves to strengthen their full-back options.
Photo: IMAGO
TEAMtalk’s sources indicate that Alexander-Arnold is leaning towards accepting Real Madrid’s offer, a blow to Liverpool fans who have seen the academy graduate evolve into one of the Premier League’s finest players.
Liverpool’s response has been swift. Discussions with Bayer Leverkusen regarding Jeremie Frimpong are reportedly underway. The Dutch full-back has also attracted interest from Manchester City, but Liverpool appear to be in pole position to secure his services. Known for his pace and attacking prowess, Frimpong fits Slot’s philosophy of dynamic full-backs who can influence both ends of the pitch.
Photo: IMAGO
In a bold statement of intent, Liverpool have also set their sights on Alphonso Davies, the Canadian sensation from Bayern Munich. While Real Madrid and Barcelona are among those keeping tabs on Davies, Liverpool’s interest appears to be motivated partly by frustration over Madrid’s pursuit of Alexander-Arnold.
Photo IMAGO
Should Davies prove unattainable, Liverpool are exploring alternatives such as Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and PSG’s Nuno Mendes. These options underline the club’s determination to rejuvenate their defensive flanks, with Andy Robertson’s long-term successor being a priority.
TEAMtalk also reports that Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is edging closer to a move to Anfield. Despite competition from Chelsea and Newcastle, Liverpool are confident of landing the centre-back to bolster their defensive ranks. Slot is keen to add depth to a backline led by Virgil van Dijk, whose contract renewal until 2027 is reportedly close to finalisation.
Meanwhile, speculation over Luis Diaz’s future has been quelled. Despite interest from PSG, Liverpool remain resolute in keeping the Colombian winger, an integral part of Slot’s attacking setup.
As Liverpool supporters digest this flurry of transfer activity, opinions are understandably mixed. Some fans are concerned about losing a homegrown talent like Alexander-Arnold to a direct European rival, especially on a free transfer. His creativity and pinpoint delivery will leave a void that even a player of Frimpong’s calibre may struggle to fill.
The pursuit of Alphonso Davies, however, has sparked excitement. A player of Davies’s quality would undoubtedly elevate Liverpool’s left flank, and his versatility could add another dimension to Slot’s tactical approach. Yet, securing him from Bayern Munich, amid interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona, feels like an uphill battle.
Marc Guehi’s potential arrival has also been met with optimism. A proven Premier League defender with leadership qualities, Guehi could seamlessly integrate into Liverpool’s backline, offering vital support to Van Dijk.
Ultimately, fans will be expectant as the summer window approaches. Liverpool’s proactive planning signals ambition, but supporters will want assurances that these targets are more than just reactive moves to Alexander-Arnold’s impending departure. A successful transfer strategy could solidify Slot’s era at Anfield and set the tone for the club’s future success.