Right-back Trent Alexander Arnold looks likely to leave Liverpool this summer, so it’s crucial for the hierarchy to land an alternative.
The 26-year-old reportedly agreed to a move to join the Spanish giants at the end of the season at the expiration of his current deal before signing with Real Madrid.
His goal with Leicester City over the weekend may have been his last for the club in his youth.
Connor Bradley is the man who stomps and fills the emptiness in the absence of Trent’s injuries in recent weeks, claiming the role of a regular start if he leaves in the summer.
Whether Northern Ireland International will become a regular starter or not, such sectors require depth and will provide depth throughout 2025/26.
Liverpool pursued Jeremy Fripon this summer
Over the past few weeks, Jeremy Fripon has appeared as a major target for Liverpool in the right-back division, offering a departure torrent alternative.
The Dutch currently trading with Bayer Levarkusen in the Bundesliga is firmly present on the club’s radar, but his offer of service has not yet been submitted.
Given his form in 2024/25, this interest is understandable, registering four goals and nine assists in all competitions, including the Champions League.
It remains unclear how much the club will have to fork out for the Dutch International, but given his shape and age just 24, he could cost him quite a bit in the coming months.
However, despite his interest in signature, the hierarchy is also a huge admirer of Nottingham Forest’s fullback Oraaina, opening the door to a potential summer move.
According to one Spanish outlet, the Reds have already begun work on the 28-year-old’s move.
Why Liverpool should forget Frimon with PL RB moves
This summer is important to Liverpool to maintain success at the top of England’s top flights, and will require additions to various positions to increase the likelihood of further success in the slot.
The new attackers are undoubtedly on the list and could partner with Mohamed Sara within the last third after the Egyptian contract extension in recent weeks.
However, it is still unclear how much money will be handed over to make the transfer the manager wants to do.
In such a situation, cheaper alternatives may be considered, and although Aina’s move could potentially be that, the club is still winning one hell for players.
Comparing Nigerian statistics with Frimon’s statistics, he is able to outperform him in many important areas, highlighting what a great addition to the current first team team.
Labeled by European football expert Zack Roy as “one of Europe’s best fullbacks of the season,” Forest Star may have registered fewer goals and assists, but has stepped up a higher take-on success rate and more progressive passes.
He also completed more passes but earned more airborne duels and offers an all-around presence on the right side of the slot’s backline.
How Olaina compares to Jeremy Fripon in 2024/25 | ||
|---|---|---|
Statistics (per 90) | everytime | Frimon |
The game has been played | 30 | 30 |
Goals and Assistance | 3 | 9 |
Progressive Pass | 3.2 | 2.1 |
Accuracy | 77% | 76% |
The tackle won | 1.4 | 0.9 |
Intercept has been performed | 1.1 | 0.4 |
Take-on success | 45% | 28% |
The air won | 40% | 34% |
Statistics via FBREF | ||
Defensively, Aina has far surpassed Frimon in such areas, earning many of the tackles he has entered, and also showing off the qualities he can add to an already impressive defensive unit.
While the Dutch are likely their main target, they must desperately explore the deal for Aina and have all the tools to succeed in Anfield.
It could certainly be a cost-effective transaction for Forest Stars, and while it could add investments elsewhere, it could also greatly improve the situation if torrents depart.
Related
Jota’s major upgrade: Liverpool will bid for “Best Striker in Europe”
It appears Liverpool is preparing a mammoth bid for new offensive talent this summer.