Liverpool Star is ‘Expected’ to Sign a New Contract – Journalist | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Right-Back Revolution: What’s Next for Conor Bradley Amid Frimpong Arrival and Trent Exit?

As Liverpool prepare to confirm the £30 million signing of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, and with Trent Alexander-Arnold seemingly destined for Real Madrid, attention now turns to the man caught in the middle of the full-back shuffle—Conor Bradley.

Lewis Bower, speaking to Ben Pescod on Anfield Index’s Academy Podcast, has provided critical insight into where things stand with the Northern Irish international, and it paints a compelling picture for Liverpool’s future at right-back.

Conor Bradley’s Contract Situation Still Unresolved

Bower revealed that contract negotiations with Bradley are not as advanced as some may have hoped, noting:

“There was a contract offer in December that was quite far away.”

It’s a concerning update for fans who have seen Bradley emerge as a serious talent under Arne Slot. Yet, despite the lack of immediate agreement, the tone from the Liverpool camp suggests confidence in keeping the young full-back.

“We can’t always read into what managers say, but with Arne Slot I think you can. The way that he speaks about Bradley is really positive in the fact that he wants to keep him around.”

Slot’s endorsement of Bradley seems more than lip service. With Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure imminent and Frimpong stepping in as a headline arrival, the dynamics of Liverpool’s right flank are shifting dramatically. Slot’s early impact at Anfield has already been seismic—winning the Premier League in his debut season—and his belief in Bradley indicates the 20-year-old has a key role to play in the Slot era.

No Clear Academy Alternative Means Bradley’s Role is Crucial

Despite Frimpong’s arrival, Liverpool are unlikely to offload two right-backs in the same summer. Bower added:

“There would be interest in him but I don’t think there’s a right-back ready to come up through the academy just yet and I can’t see Liverpool replacing two right-backs this summer.”

Photo: IMAGO

This insight underscores Bradley’s importance as a transitional figure in the squad—someone who can support Frimpong while continuing to grow under Slot’s system. With no academy player knocking on the door, Liverpool’s succession plan at right-back appears to hinge on Bradley signing that new deal.

Slot’s Backing Should Not Be Underestimated

One of the most telling aspects of this situation is the faith that Slot has shown in Bradley. Bower said:

“He has mentioned that he can become Liverpool’s right-back and that he will be around in the long-term.”

This isn’t vague encouragement—it’s a clear statement of intent. Slot, unlike many modern managers who speak in riddles, has been refreshingly direct in his assessment of players. If he says Bradley has a long-term future at Anfield, the club’s vision likely reflects that belief.

In fact, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Bradley play a significant role in Liverpool’s domestic and European campaigns next season. His versatility, composure, and understanding of the game have already impressed, and he now stands at a crossroads: step up as a primary option or risk stagnating amid Liverpool’s evolution.

Photo: IMAGO

Why Bradley’s Contract Decision Could Define Liverpool’s Summer

In many ways, Conor Bradley’s next move will reveal much about Liverpool’s strategy under Arne Slot. With Alexander-Arnold leaving and Frimpong arriving, Bradley represents continuity and development—a player who has come through the ranks and earned trust at the top level.

Bower believes the signs are still encouraging:

“I think Bradley will be here to stay and sign a new contract.”

If true, it would be a vital piece of business. Bradley’s potential to be a long-term contributor at right-back—particularly under a manager who clearly rates him—gives Liverpool a smoother transition than many fans might fear. He may not yet be a superstar, but if Slot’s backing is anything to go by, Bradley could soon be far more than just a squad player.

With the Frimpong signing imminent and Trent Alexander-Arnold on his way out, Liverpool’s right-back department is undergoing a quiet revolution. Amid it all, Conor Bradley’s contract remains a live issue—but with Slot’s support and a clear pathway in front of him, there’s every reason to believe he’ll be part of Liverpool’s future. If the club can get his new deal across the line, it may prove one of the most important signings of the summer.