Report: Liverpool approach Jeremie Frimpong as Trent Alexander-Arnold replacement

The move comes as the Reds brace for a major shake-up at the back, with Trent Alexander-Arnold heavily tipped to join Real Madrid when his contract runs out at the end of the season.

The Merseyside outfit are already planning for life after their homegrown star, who looks set to leave for free in the summer of 2025. While young gun Conor Bradley is in line for a bigger role, with reports suggesting Liverpool are working to extend his deal, the club are not putting all their eggs in one basket.

Frimpong, a versatile and attack-minded full-back, has emerged as a prime target to fill the void.

Frimpong's contract at Leverkusen includes a release clause worth 34 million pounds, making him a cost-effective option for a player of his calibre. It's no shock that Liverpool aren't alone in the race, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United have all been linked with the 24-year-old in recent months.

His price tag and skill set make him a hot commodity across the Premier League.

The Dutchman's journey to this point has been impressive. After coming through Manchester City's youth ranks without breaking into the first team, Frimpong moved to Celtic in 2019. There, he caught the eye with his pace and flair, earning a switch to Leverkusen two years later.

At Celtic, former boss Neil Lennon didn't hold back in his praise. "He's one of the best kids I've seen," Lennon said during Frimpong's time at Parkhead. "His level of performance is outstanding. He has pace, power, end product, he's been magnificent since he came in the door."

Ex-Celtic captain Scott Brown was equally impressed, highlighting Frimpong's relentless energy. "Jeremie is incredible, to be honest," Brown said in 2019. "He runs up and down that line, and his change of direction and speed are so hard to cope with. He's been great since coming in, a lovely lad and down to earth."

Frimpong's attacking instincts and versatility echo what Alexander-Arnold has brought to Liverpool over the years, though the England international's defensive work has often been under scrutiny. With Bradley ready to step up and Frimpong available at a reasonable price, the Reds are unlikely to splash out huge sums on a replacement, a smart move given Alexander-Arnold's exit won't bring in a transfer fee.

According to reports, Liverpool have held "initial talks" with Frimpong's camp, with sources noting he's "of interest" to manager Arne Slot.

Personal terms, it seems, won't be an issue if the deal gathers pace.

Alexander-Arnold's expected move to Real Madrid could spark a “domino effect”, pushing Liverpool to ramp up their pursuit of Frimpong.

With Slot's side leading the Premier League and eyeing more silverware, the Dutch defender's arrival could keep the Reds firing on all cylinders down the right flank.

Watch this space, this transfer chase is just heating up.