Liverpool in ‘direct contact' with SUPERSTAR to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold

The Reds have reportedly opened talks with the man they believe could replace Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Alexander-Arnold, who is the current vice-captain at Anfield, is one of the three stars – alongside Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah – out of contract at Liverpool this summer.

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The 26-year-old has long been courted by Real Madrid, and he could swap Merseyside for Madrid for free at the end of the season if a new deal can’t be agreed.

Although his departure is not yet guaranteed, Liverpool have begun contingency planning and have identified Bayern Munich and Germany star Joshua Kimmich as a potential replacement.   

Liverpool make Kimmich contact

Sky Sports Switzerland are now reporting that the Reds are in ‘direct contact’ with Kimmich’s entourage and that Liverpool’s interest could damage Bayern’s chances of extending the German international’s expiring contract.

The 29-year-old would also be available on a free transfer this summer, but the report suggests that the Reds could even spend €25 million this January to secure Kimmich’s services.

The fullback’s versatility makes him an appealing option for Liverpool’s recruitment team as Kimmich is very capable of playing in a holding midfield role and has also been deployed in the centre of defence a number of times in his career.

The signing would appeal to Liverpool’s higher-ups too, and the report states that “Kimmich's name also reassures American shareholders, worried about seeing one of their best defenders leave Merseyside.”

The Reds must convince Kimmich

Bayern Munich had previously been ‘extremely confident’ that they would be able to sign Kimmich to an extension, but the Reds’ interest could derail the plans of the 32-time Bundesliga winners.

Although Liverpool are reportedly willing to make a January approach, they first wish to convince Kimmich to join them so they can have his support when negotiating with Bayern Munich.

According to Sky Sports Switzerland, the Reds are seeking the ‘public support’ of Kimmich in order to facilitate negotiations with his current side.

If Liverpool are able to convince Kimmich of their project, then a deal could see the 97-capped German move to Anfield either this month for a fee or in the summer on a free transfer.

Alexander-Arnold’s future in Merseyside has not yet been settled, but as he edges closer to the exit door it appears Liverpool are starting to plan for life after Trent.

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