Liverpool identify 'leading candidate' to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold | OneFootball

Liverpool still see Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong as a "leading candidate" to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer, a report has claimed.

The Reds were rocked earlier this month by confirmation of Alexander-Arnold's decision to walk away from the club on a free transfer when his contract expires, with Real Madrid expected to confirm his arrival in the coming weeks.

Losing Alexander-Arnold will leave a significant hole in the Liverpool back line. Manager Arne Slot appears to have put his faith in fellow academy graduate Conor Bradley, but the Anfield outfit could still dip into the transfer market for further reinforcements.

Frimpong has long been touted as a top target for Liverpool and The Times insist the interest in the Dutchman remains heading into the summer transfer window.

The Dutchman's contract includes a release clause which sits around the £30m mark - a fee which has attracted interest from a number of sides across Europe.

While £30m is an affordable figure for Liverpool, the Reds are thought to have other priorities in the summer window. Signing a new striker for Slot is the primary goal and is likely to take up a significant portion of Liverpool's budget.

Another centre-back is also thought to be wanted, and it is thought Liverpool will pursue those deals before deciding whether to try and bring in a new right-back.

Alongside Bradley, Liverpool do have versatile defenders Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah to call on for cover, but both natural centre-backs have been linked with moves elsewhere. The departure of at least one of the pair could force the recruitment team into action.