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

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.

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