It's finally happening! Liverpool closing in on transfer to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold | OneFootball

Liverpool may finally be turning their attention to a long-term successor for Trent Alexander-Arnold, with the need for a player of his quality now becoming clear.

Conor Bradley’s injury earlier this season only highlighted a problem that sporting director Richard Hughes was always likely to confront.

Despite ongoing efforts behind the scenes, replacing a player with Alexander-Arnold’s unique skill set has proven far more challenging than expected.

There is also a growing sense that Jeremie Frimpong is viewed by Arne Slot as more of an attacking option than a conventional right-back, with his own injury concerns adding further doubt.

Frimpong’s strengths are best utilised higher up the pitch, and he has not consistently been relied upon in a deeper defensive role.

Meanwhile, Dominik Szoboszlai has occasionally filled in at right-back, though that has always appeared to be a short-term workaround rather than a lasting solution.

Beyond the defensive concerns, Liverpool are also feeling the absence of Alexander-Arnold’s creativity.

His ability to dictate play from deep and unlock defences was a key part of the team’s identity. Florian Wirtz was expected to help compensate for that loss, but so far, he has yet to fully deliver in that regard.

The German is best deployed further up the field - hence why he is more of a creator in and around the penalty area. Arne Slot tried to deploy Wirtz deeper earlier on in the season to make-up for the loss of Alexander-Arnold but it didn't work.

With the way Liverpool want to play, they will need a player who can do what Alexander-Arnold did - which is progress the ball and create chances from deep.

Liverpool need a true line-breaker, who can involve himself in the build-up and create high quality chances on a regular and consistent basis.

There isn't a right-back like that in world football right now. However, there is a midfielder.

His name is Adam Wharton.

Out of central midfielders in the Premier League Adam Wharton has the second highest xA from open play (4.72) and he also ranks in the top 5 for progressive passes (8.74 per 90 minutes).

Wharton is that player, he does what Trent used to do at Liverpool - just from midfield.

He's the perfect solution and it looks like the Reds are closing in on a move to sign him.

Speaking on Radio Marca, Matteo Moretto revealed that Liverpool are in negotiations with the England midfielder and that they want to sign him this summer, with contacts having already been made.

He added that Wharton's preference is to stay in the Premier League, which is a good indication for Liverpool's chances of getting their man - because Real Madrid had previously also been linked with him.

Given that negotiations are now underway, it looks like Liverpool are finally closing in on their replacement for Alexander-Arnold.