Liverpool can't afford to spend big money on replacement for summer exit

Liverpool can't afford to spend big money on replacement for summer exit as transfer set

Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly close to agreeing a move from Liverpool to Real Madrid

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Trent Alexander-Arnold may have moved one step closer to leaving Liverpool after reports emerged on Tuesday that the defender is close to agreeing a contract with Real Madrid. It means the Reds could lose a player many consider the world's best in his position during his prime years.

And the 26-year-old's departure would also represent another dilemma to ponder for Richard Hughes and Arne Slot as they prepare for what promises to be a busy summer transfer window.

Along with Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also out of contract and yet to agree extensions, while there are rumours Liverpool could target players throughout the side as Slot looks to remodel his squad.

So should Liverpool commit significant funds to buy a replacement for Alexander-Arnold? Our writers have their say.

Theo Squires

Losing Trent Alexander-Arnold would be a bitter blow for Liverpool. But while what he offers to the Reds is unique and irreplaceable, the 26-year-old himself is not.

The Reds will not be the same without him but in Conor Bradley they already have a proven replacement. He is worthy of the opportunity to make the shirt his own, as Jurgen Klopp gave Alexander-Arnold in the first place eight years ago.

It could be a busy summer for the Reds. Contract uncertainty regarding Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk remains, but even if the pair stay put, there could still be a number of players moving on.

You can make an argument for Liverpool needing a new centre-back, left-back, holding midfielder, winger and centre-forward before even taking outgoings and possible replacements into consideration.

It would be wise for the Reds to prioritise using funds elsewhere rather than on a big-money Alexander-Arnold replacement, especially when there is already a player of the quality of Bradley in reserve. They can compete for top honours with the Northern Irishman at right-back with the need for a prolific centre-forward rather more pressing.

There would still need to be a new right-back signing to offer competition at least. A hybrid who can also play centre-back or holding midfield, which was actually originally considered when signing Fabinho back in 2018, would be ideal.

Alternatively, Jeremie Frimpong perhaps offers a market opportunity if reports of his £40m release clause are to be believed. He is classed as homegrown at least, though his experience predominantly comes at wing-back rather than full-back.

Either way, Liverpool have plenty to consider as multiple plates continue to spin heading into the summer transfer window.

Joe Rimmer

Liverpool shouldn't try to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, because Trent Alexander-Arnold is irreplaceable.

There simply isn't another full-back like him. And while Liverpool will miss him, the best response to his departure might be through tactical tweaks rather than the transfer market.

Sure, Liverpool will need further cover and competition for Conor Bradley, but the Northern Irishman deserves the chance to nail down the position himself after providing excellent back-up to Alexander-Arnold in the past two seasons.

Put simply, Liverpool will be better served spending their money elsewhere. They can't afford to splurge on an expensive full-back.

Centre-forward should be the priority. Plus left-back, central midfield and centre-back are all positions that need strengthening this summer. And that's all without the exits of Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.

Whatever happens, it's going to be a very busy summer and while Alexander-Arnold's exit will no doubt hurt, it shouldn't alter the Reds' transfer plans too much.

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