It’s finally happening! Liverpool closing in on transfer to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool could finally turn their attention to a long-term successor for Trent Alexander-Arnold, with the need for a player of his quality now becoming evident.
Conor Bradley’s injury earlier this season only highlighted a problem sporting director Richard Hughes was always likely to face.
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Despite continued efforts behind the scenes, replacing a player with Alexander-Arnold’s unique skill set proved much more difficult than expected.
There is also a growing feeling that Jérémie Frimpong is seen by Arne Slot as an attacking option rather than a conventional right-back, with his own injury problems adding even more doubt.
Frimpong’s strengths are better utilized higher up the pitch, and he hasn’t always been relied upon in a deeper defensive role.
Meanwhile, Dominik Szoboszlai has filled in at right-back at times, although this has always seemed like a short-term workaround rather than a lasting solution.
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Beyond defensive concerns, Liverpool also feel Alexander-Arnold’s lack of creativity.
His ability to dictate deep play and unlock defenses was a key part of the team’s identity. Florian Wirtz was supposed to help make up for this loss, but so far he has yet to fully deliver on his promises in this regard.
The German is best deployed higher up the pitch, which is why he is more of a creator in and around the penalty area. Arne Slot tried to deploy Wirtz deeper earlier in the season to compensate for the loss of Alexander-Arnold, but it didn’t work.
With the way Liverpool want to play, they will need a player who can do what Alexander-Arnold did – that is, progress the ball and create chances from deep.
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Liverpool need a real line breaker who can get involved in the build-up and create high quality chances on a regular and consistent basis.
There is currently no right-back like him in world football. However, there is a midfielder.
His name is Adam Wharton.
Among Premier League central midfielders, Adam Wharton has the second highest xA in open play (4.72) and he also ranks in the top 5 for progressive passes (8.74 per 90 minutes).
Wharton is that player, he does what Trent did at Liverpool – just from midfield.
He is the perfect solution and it looks like the Reds are close to signing him.
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Speaking on Radio Marca, Matteo Moretto revealed that Liverpool are in negotiations with the England midfielder and that they are keen to sign him this summer, with contacts having already been made.
He added that Wharton’s preference is to stay in the Premier League, which is a good indication of Liverpool’s chances of getting their man – as Real Madrid were also linked with him previously.
Given that negotiations are now underway, it appears that Liverpool are finally closing in on replacing Alexander-Arnold.
