Liverpool have already found their replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, according to reports in Spain.

Defensa Central claim that Bayer Leverkusen wingback Jeremie Frimpong is “close to signing” for the Reds.

It follows reports from Germany last week that head coach Arne Slot has been talking with his fellow Dutchman about a move to Anfield.

At the time, the speculation about Alexander-Arnold joining Real Madrid was not quite as intense, but it was suggested that the Merseysiders were seriously contemplating buying Frimpong if their vice-captain chose to leave.

Leverkusen are powerless to stop Liverpool from taking the defender

A release clause in Frimpong’s contract means he can leave his current club for just €40m (£34m) and it appears that the Reds will take advantage of the situation.

It remains to be seen whether any other team will decide to enter the race for the 24-year-old. Both Manchester United and Manchester City have been credited with an interest in the player over the past couple of seasons.

However, neither took their chance to sign Frimpong last summer when the clause was previously active and they haven’t made any concerted move for the Netherlands international since then either.

What is the latest on Alexander-Arnold’s future?

At the time of writing, the right-back has not put pen to paper on a pre-contract agreement with Real but all the signs now point towards a deal being reached over the coming days.

The silence surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s future has been deafening, with no indications in recent months that the 26-year-old was close to staying at Anfield.

Many believe Conor Bradley has what it takes to step in and succeed Alexander-Arnold but the addition of Frimpong would provide the depth required for what is a key position.

Read our exclusive interview with former Liverpool fullback Glen Johnson as he talks about whether the Reds should sign Kerkez.