Liverpool may be preparing for life without long-time right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, as the star has yet to sign an extension on his contract, which expires in the summer of 2025. The Reds are reportedly willing to activate a £34.7 million release clause for Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong as a potential successor.
Alexander-Arnold, who has been with Liverpool since childhood, has drawn interest from top clubs, including Real Madrid, who are currently dealing with an injury crisis on defense. Real's issues worsened with ACL injuries to defenders Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal, as well as a month-long absence for right-back Lucas Vazquez. This has spurred speculation that the Spanish club may accelerate their pursuit of Alexander-Arnold.
With Real Madrid possibly ramping up efforts to sign the 26-year-old, Liverpool appears ready to pivot toward Frimpong, whom they view as a strong candidate to fill Alexander-Arnold's role. The Dutch international, currently at Bayer Leverkusen, has established himself as a key player since leaving Celtic in 2021, contributing to Leverkusen’s unbeaten Bundesliga season under Liverpool icon Xabi Alonso. Celtic would also benefit from a transfer, as they hold a 30% sell-on clause for Frimpong.
Frimpong, previously part of Manchester City’s youth system before moving to Celtic in 2019, was instrumental in securing a treble in his first season in Scotland. Now 23, he’s known for his pace, defensive acumen, and flexibility across the right flank, having also covered the left side on occasion. This season, he has notched a goal and three assists in the Bundesliga.
While Alexander-Arnold remains a pivotal figure at Liverpool—having helped the team claim the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League—his future is uncertain. He recently sustained a hamstring injury during a match against Aston Villa. Should he decide to move on, Liverpool will look to Frimpong as a versatile replacement, able to contribute both offensively and defensively.
Frimpong signed an extension with Leverkusen in 2023 that runs through 2028. Though a transfer would likely disappoint Alonso, Celtic is positioned to gain financially from a 30% sell-on clause, adding a significant boost to their resources as they aim to dominate the Scottish league.