England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold is nearing the end of his contract with Liverpool. Negotiations with the clubs are ongoing, but Real Madrid are doing everything in their power to acquire him, and the battle of persuasion between the two clubs is in full swing.
News from the Spanish side suggests that he is confirmed to join Real, but at the moment nothing has been decided and no announcement has been made by Liverpool.
The local player would like to stay at Anfield, but the club is a political force in football, attracting promising youngsters from all over the world, with star players joining one after the other, and cannot be underestimated.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are also on the lookout for a successor in case the 26-year-old right-back leaves the club. Apart from acquiring him from other clubs, Northern Ireland defender Conor Bradley is one promising replacement.
Former England international Emile Heskey said the player has the qualities to be a good replacement.
“Conor Bradley has proven himself as a good replacement for Trent,”
“I can’t see any reason why he couldn’t take over that right-back position.”
“He may not have that ability that Trent does of stepping into midfield with the ball at his feet, but his defensive ability and the way he can get up and down the right, he’s absolutely good enough to play for that Liverpool side.”
“Liverpool will be looking at whether he can take that next step, and whether they should bring someone in behind to support him or push him further.”
Instant Casino
The 21-year-old defender woke up on loan at Bolton Wanderers. He has made 43 first-team appearances for Merseyside, and has even taken the captain’s mark for Northern Ireland on his debut in 2021.
As the former Liverpool forward has told us, he has a different style of play to Trent Alexander-Arnold. He is better at creating chances from the right side of the field rather than building from the back, and often runs into the penalty area himself.
Although there is a big difference compared to the influence of the current England defender, he could develop further by being given a starting role.
So what kind of squad will Liverpool have in place in case of an eventuality…?