Liverpool manager Arne Slot eyes Jeremie Frimpong as Trent Alexander-Arnold's replacement

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has reportedly been in regular contact with Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong, discussing a potential summer transfer.

The Reds are preparing for the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Alexander-Arnold’s expiring contract has been a major concern for Liverpool, prompting the club to identify potential replacements.

According to reports, Frimpong has been at the top of Liverpool’s list of potential replacements since December.

Slot has been driving the club’s interest in the 24-year-old Dutchman, and the pair have held numerous phone calls to discuss the future.

Slot has made no secret of his desire to sign Frimpong but has also acknowledged that signing a new right-back will not be the top priority, even if Alexander-Arnold leaves.

Instead, Liverpool will focus on signing a new striker and centre-back, with Frimpong being considered as the club’s third signing if deals for the other positions can be wrapped up first.

Frimpong’s Leverkusen contract includes a release clause of €40m (£33.7m), which would need to be paid in full if Liverpool or any other suitor wants to trigger it.

However, Liverpool face competition from other top clubs, including Manchester City and Barcelona, who have also been linked with Frimpong.

Manchester United, who were previously interested in Frimpong, are not expected to join the chase this time around, having signed Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu last summer.

With the summer transfer window approaching, Liverpool will need to act quickly to secure Frimpong’s signature and ensure a smooth transition following Alexander-Arnold’s departure.