Trent Alexander-Arnold, a mainstay at right back since his teenage years, is entering a new phase of his career, as he has been increasingly used in midfield for England since last season. With his expected conversion to midfielder in the future, he is suffering from a shortage of reserve side backs.
Last season, Liverpool acquired Scotland U-21 international Calvin Ramsay, but an injury sidelined his season. This season, the club had high hopes for Northern Ireland defender Conor Bradley, who has developed on loan, but he, too, has yet to start due to injury.
According to Depor, Liverpool is looking to strengthen the position and has decided to join the battle for Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong, in which Real Madrid and Chelsea are also interested.
El Blanco’s search for a successor to 31-year-old defender Daniel Carvajal is seen as a top priority in next summer’s transfer market, with interest reportedly coming from Chelsea defender Reece James and others. Chelsea, who could match the pullout, are also looking to reinforce their right side.
The 22-year-old side-back, who made his debut for the Dutch national team in October 2023, agreed last month to extend his contract until 2028. However, interest from strong clubs continues and he is expected to join a big club in the near future.
He has also played in Manchester City’s academy, and after a spell with Scottish side Celtic, he joined Leverkusen in 2021. Since then, he has scored 16 goals and provided 27 assists in 111 games, and in recent years has continued to build a reputation as one of the best side-backs in the Bundesliga.
Will the young Dutch defender make the step up in the transfer market next summer?