Real Madrid ‘informed’ as Liverpool CLOSE IN on transfer for Alexander-Arnold replacement

Liverpool are already prepared for life after Trent Alexander-Arnold, with Real Madrid’s agreement for the defender leading to Arne Slot closing in on a deal for the right-back’s replacement.

Reports emerged this week that Alexander-Arnold will join Real in the summer on a free transfer when his contract expires at Liverpool, with just official confirmation awaited.

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While the news will have been a disappointment for Liverpool, it will not have come as a surprise after months of failing to convince Alexander-Arnold to extend his deal with his boyhood club.

Liverpool have been preparing for the worst case scenario and, with the situation all but confirmed, Slot’s side are aiming to move quickly to seal a deal for a replacement.

And, perhaps ironically, Alexander-Arnold’s decision has helped Liverpool close in on their preferred target, with Spanish outlet Defensa Central claiming that an intermediary for Jeremie Frimpong contracted Real to ‘inform’ them of the Bayer Leverkusen star’s decision to move to Anfield.

Frimpong had been one of Real’s alternative targets had they not secured a deal for Alexander-Arnold but, with a deal now in place for the England international, Liverpool are seemingly set to move for their preferred replacement.

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Real hesitancy over Frimpong deal gives Liverpool free run at Leverkusen star

Frimpong had impressed both Real and Liverpool with his attacking play down the right flank for Leverkusen, providing 23 Bundesliga goal contributions since the start of last season.

However, Frimpong’s role as almost an advanced winger for Leverkusen is said to have caused some doubts for Real, with concerns over his defensive ability in a back four.

Instead, Alexander-Arnold was seen as a perfect market opportunity due to his availability on a free transfer and his desire to move to Los Blancos at the peak of his career.

Liverpool could still consider other options for their Alexander-Arnold replacement but Frimpong appears to be a front runner, particularly with Leverkusen open to his sale for the right amount.

Frimpong’s contract is believed to contain a release clause of €40 million and that amount could allow Liverpool to also strengthen in other areas of the pitch, particularly knowing that Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk could also follow Alexander-Arnold out the door on a free transfer.