Liverpool have been handed a shock boost to their hopes of keeping Trent Alexander-Arnold at the club beyond the summer as Real Madrid identify new target at right back.
Madrid's admiration of Alexander-Arnold has been well-documented over recent months, with the European giants set to make a move for a right sides full-back following the injury of Dani Carvajal.
With Alexander-Arnold's contract set to expire at the end of the season as well as the transitional period Liverpool find themselves in post-Jurgen Klopp, now seems the most probable time for Trent to make the move.
Advert
The England international's bromance with Jude Bellingham is also catching the eye, as it is not uncommon for international teammates to try and persuade players to secure a transfer.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Madrid appears to have turned their attention to another man who could fill the boots of 32-year-old Carvajal.
According to Sky Sport's Florian Plettenberg, Madrid are 'monitoring the situation' of Bayer Leverkusen star Jeremie Frimpong.
Advert
The 23-year-old right wing-back has a contract with the Bundesliga champions until 2028, but the report states the Dutchman has a release clause of around £33m in his contract.
Frimpong is a similar profile to Alexander-Arnold as the majority of his strengths are used in attack rather than defense.
The former Manchester City man has become one of the biggest talents in Europe, so the prospect of securing the wing-back's services for just £33m would be an absolute bargain.
However, the one deal that may be more attractive is getting Liverpool's star right-back for free, particularly when he has proven to be consistently world-class for a longer period than Frimpong.
Advert
Alexander-Arnold has already spoken on his precarious contract situation last month when the Madrid rumours first started to gain traction.
“I want to be a Liverpool player this season (as a minimum) is what I will say," Trent said.
Trent also stressed that whatever happens it will be done behind closed doors and with respect.
Advert
“Look, I have been at the club 20 years now. I have signed four or five contract extensions and none of those have been played out in public. This one won’t be either," he explained.
The noise around Alexander-Arnold hasn't affected the 26-year-old as he starred for England in their recent victory against Finland, scoring a screamer of a free-kick from range.
Topics: Liverpool, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid, Jude Bellingham, Transfer News, Premier League, Football