Liverpool have allegedly identified who they would like to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold should he depart on a free transfer.
Reports have indicated in recent days that the long-serving right-back is likely to sign a deal to join Real Madrid in the summer.
The England international netted his 20th goal in 333 appearances as the Merseyside giants thrashed West Ham United on Sunday evening.
With the 26-year-old having also contributed 85 assists, it is clear Liverpool will struggle to find a like-for-like alternative should Alexander-Arnold leave for the Bernabeu.
Nevertheless, according to TEAMtalk, club officials have already earmarked who they would like to replace him.
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Frimpong the preferred candidate?
The report claims that Liverpool are preparing what is described as 'a blockbuster swoop' for Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong.
A total of two goals and eight assists have been contributed from 21 appearances in the Bundesliga and Champions League this campaign.
With 27 strikes and 40 assists coming from his 166 outings for Leverkusen, the 24-year-old's numbers are better than Alexander-Arnold's, albeit from a more advanced wing-back role.
Should Alexander-Arnold not move to Madrid, Frimpong is allegedly the backup option for Los Blancos, yet it appears that Liverpool have already held discussions with Leverkusen.
Although a contract is in place until 2028, the current German top-flight champions could start a transitional period in the summer if head coach Xabi Alonso moves elsewhere.
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An approach out of spite?
Meanwhile, the report adds that Liverpool are ready to follow Real's move for Alexander-Arnold by trying to sign another of the Spanish side's free-agent targets.
Bayern Munich defender Alphonso Davies will soon be able to hold negotiations with foreign clubs as he continues to consider a move away from the Allianz Arena.
With Andrew Robertson turning 31 years of age in march and Kostas Tsimikas not viewed as a long-term successor, Arne Slot may soon enter the market for a fresh face at left-back.
Darren Plant
