Report: Liverpool Line Up 3 Targets as Madrid Eye Key Defender | OneFootball

Liverpool Face Alexander-Arnold Dilemma as Real Madrid Circle

Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly the subject of significant interest from Real Madrid, who are said to be preparing a lucrative contract offer for the England international. According to Caught Offside, the Spanish giants are willing to offer Alexander-Arnold a deal worth £14-15 million per year, stretching until the 2029-2030 season.

Sources close to the situation indicate that discussions between Real Madrid and Alexander-Arnold’s camp have been ongoing, with the player reportedly pleased by the terms, particularly the duration of the proposed contract. While his representatives are still in negotiations with Liverpool, the threat of Madrid’s interest is undoubtedly a concern for the Anfield club.

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This looming offer from Real Madrid presents a significant dilemma for Liverpool, especially with Alexander-Arnold not far from becoming a free agent. If he were to leave, Liverpool would need to fill the massive void left by one of their most influential players in recent years.

Potential Replacements for Alexander-Arnold

Given the uncertainty surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s future, Liverpool are reportedly looking at three potential right-back replacements. The club has identified Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, Monaco’s Vanderson, and Fiorentina youngster Michael Kayode as possible candidates for the position next summer.

Of the three, Frimpong stands out as the most likely option, with his attacking prowess and defensive capabilities making him an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s system. Frimpong played a key role in Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten Bundesliga title-winning campaign last season, showcasing his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch. Vanderson and Kayode also bring promise, but Frimpong’s profile closely resembles the style Alexander-Arnold has brought to Liverpool in recent seasons.

Photo: IMAGO

With Alexander-Arnold’s future still hanging in the balance, Liverpool’s transfer strategy will be crucial in determining how they navigate a potential departure of such an integral figure.

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As one of the key players during the club’s golden era under Jurgen Klopp, and now continuing to be a crucial component under Arne Slot, the right-back’s potential departure would leave a significant gap in the team’s identity and effectiveness. His vision, passing range, and ability to create from deep are almost irreplaceable qualities, and losing him to Real Madrid would feel like a considerable setback.

However, the club’s approach to potential replacements does offer some hope. Jeremie Frimpong, with his energetic style and attacking mindset, seems like a logical choice to step into the role. His performance for Bayer Leverkusen has been eye-catching, and his development in the Bundesliga suggests he’s ready for the leap to a club of Liverpool’s stature.

Still, there is no doubt among supporters that this would mark the end of an era at Anfield if Alexander-Arnold moves to Madrid. With key players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk also nearing the end of their contracts, the club could be heading towards a significant transition period. Fans will be expecting Arne Slot and the Liverpool board to act swiftly and decisively, ensuring that this period of change does not derail the club’s ambitions in the Premier League and Europe.