Trent Alexander-Arnold has confirmed what many Liverpool fans have been dreading: he’s leaving Anfield when his contract ends this summer. While rumors have been swirling for months—most pointing toward a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid—the news is still a tough pill to swallow.

It’s not just about losing a world-class talent. It’s the emotional weight of saying goodbye to a local hero who’s been with the club since he was six, wore the vice-captain’s armband, and redefined what it means to be a right-back.

Trent’s numbers tell the story: 23 goals and 86 assists in 352 appearances. He doesn’t just defend—he quarterbacks from the back, launching attacks with pinpoint passing and vision that’s rare even among midfielders.

Can Liverpool really replace someone like that? Probably not directly. But let’s explore the possible options.

Internal Option: Conor Bradley

One name that keeps coming up is Conor Bradley, a 21-year-old Northern Ireland international already showing signs of something special. Fans saw his potential in a standout moment this season—his crunching tackle on Kylian Mbappé during a Champions League win over Real Madrid brought Anfield to its feet.

Bradley is no Alexander-Arnold clone. His playing style is more about off-the-ball movement than dictating tempo. He makes more forward runs (26.4 per 90 minutes vs. Trent’s 10.4) and gets into the opponent’s box more often (8.1 vs. 2.4). That could create new dynamics on Liverpool’s right flank, especially when paired with Mohamed Salah.

But he’s not yet the same creative or technical force. Bradley creates fewer chances from open play (1.0 per 90 vs. Trent’s 1.4) and crosses less frequently. Defensively, the two are fairly close in most stats, but Trent has a slight edge in key metrics like interceptions and possession recovery.

Bradley’s youth, national team leadership, and work ethic make him a solid option—but recurring injuries raise questions about whether he’s ready to take over full-time.

Transfer Target: Jeremie Frimpong

Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen is one of the top right-backs in Europe—and he’s been linked with Liverpool for a reason.

The 24-year-old Dutchman brings searing pace and attacking flair, playing more as a wing-back in Xabi Alonso’s system. Over the last two seasons, Frimpong has notched 18 goals and 19 assists across competitions.

He’s not a traditional defender, but he has played in a back four before, including at Celtic and earlier at Leverkusen. He’s dynamic, dribbles well, and has a proven record of creating danger down the right.

Frimpong isn’t as involved in playmaking or defending as Trent, but he could bring a new dimension if Liverpool want to evolve tactically. His release clause of around £34 million makes him financially appealing, and because he trained at Manchester City, he’d count as a homegrown player under Premier League rules.

Free Agent Route: Kyle Walker-Peters

If Liverpool want a more experienced, cost-effective option, Kyle Walker-Peters is a name to watch. The Southampton defender is out of contract this summer and has plenty of Premier League experience from his time with Spurs and the Saints.

He’s versatile—able to play on both sides—and boasts solid passing (90.5% accuracy) and chance creation (24 open-play chances this season). For a backup or transitional option, he could be a smart move.

The Next Trent? Givairo Read or Martim Fernandes

Liverpool might also go the “hidden gem” route.

Givairo Read, just 18, has been making waves at Feyenoord under incoming Liverpool manager Arne Slot. With six assists in the Eredivisie this season and Champions League experience, he could be a future star—if not an immediate starter.

Or there’s Martim Fernandes, a 19-year-old at Porto who’s caught scouts’ attention. He leads all defenders in Europe’s top leagues in big chances created per 90 minutes this season. He’s progressive, confident on the ball, and might be a long-term Trent-type project.

A Wild Card: Trai Hume

A left-field option? Try Trai Hume from Sunderland. The 23-year-old Northern Ireland international had a standout season in the Championship, leading all defenders in tackles and ranking among the top creators in the league.

Hume is rugged, durable, and surprisingly creative for a defender. He might not be a headline name, but he’s the kind of player who could thrive in the right system—and already has chemistry with Bradley at the international level.

The Bottom Line

You don’t just replace a unicorn like Trent Alexander-Arnold. Whoever Liverpool choose—whether they go all-in on Bradley, splash cash on Frimpong, or place a bet on young talent—the Reds will have to adjust.

One thing’s for sure: Liverpool will look different next season. The only question is whether that difference keeps them competing at the top.