Liverpool already had plenty of work to do in the summer transfer window before Trent Alexander-Arnold dropped his bombshell on Monday.
In truth, the right-back’s decision to leave Anfield has been coming for a long time, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less of a blow to the Reds. While he looks to strike a deal with Real Madrid, Arne Slot will have to plan for next season without him.
The Liverpool boss has tried to play down expectations over the Reds’ business this summer, but there’s no doubt that some big signings are needed – and even his own players know that. If the latest reports are to be believed, two such names could be in the works.
Here is the Liverpool.com verdict on the transfer gossip to emerge around the Reds today.
Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen)
Jeremie Frimpong is “keen” on a move to Liverpool, and the Reds could take advantage of the Bayer Leverkusen star’s $40 million release clause.
That’s according to The Athletic’s transfer expert David Ornstein, who suggested Frimpong could be an option to replace Alexander-Arnold this summer while speaking on NBC Sports.
Liverpool.com has reported on the Reds’ interest in the Netherlands international already this year, and with Alexander-Arnold departing, the path may now be clear for Liverpool to make a move.
Liverpool.com says: All roads would seem to point to Frimpong as an option for Liverpool this summer. That release clause makes him very attainable, so it’s perhaps a question of just how much the Reds want him.
Whether it’s Frimpong or someone else, Liverpool will need to find another right-back. Hopefully Conor Bradley will be able to establish himself as the new first-choice, but relying solely on him would be far too risky given his recent injury record.
Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig)
Liverpool is among a host of Premier League clubs preparing a bid for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, according to Caught Offside.
As well as the Reds, Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea are all said to be getting offers ready for the Slovenia international, who has scored 21 goals in 43 appearances.
Leipzig is said to be asking for up to $102 million, although it’s suggested interested clubs are looking to negotiate a fee closer to $80 million.
Liverpool.com says: You’d have to imagine Sesko will be on the move this summer, it’s just a question of where he ends up. Liverpool needs a new No.9, and while Alexander Isak would be the ideal option, someone like Sesko is probably more realistic.
