Trent Alexander-Arnold's replacement could be Jeremie Frimpong How do you solve a problem like Trent Alexander-Arnold? With Liverpool's star right-back set for a summer move to Real Madrid, Arne Slot is tasked with replacing one of the Premier League's great full-backs. The England defender has come under criticism from his own supporters for the move but Liverpool have been quick to act in pursuit of a replacement with Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong emerging as a target. Initial overtures towards a deal with the Netherlands international have begun and continued in recent days. But how do the two compare? BBC Sport takes a look at the stats. When it comes to going forward, Alexander-Arnold is crucial to everything that Liverpool do. His 18 goals and 64 assists tell only half the tale of how vital he has been to their success in recent years. But while Alexander-Arnold relies on his remarkable range of passing to create chances, Frimpong is a far more direct player, instead opting to dribble past his opponent. A product of Manchester City's academy, the 24-year-old is regarded as more of a wing-back or right-winger who can drive at a defence rather than a full-back. "If you can find him quickly and he can approach a full-back, he's lethal," the Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman said earlier this year. "He is a big threat and pressures well. His speed is an amazing weapon." This season, the former Celtic player has recorded more than double the number of dribbles made by Alexander-Arnold but less than half the number of passes. Touch maps suggest Alexander-Arnold's involvement on the right-hand touchline is as much in defensive as in attacking areas - while Frimpong tends to get involved further up the pitch out wide. In total, 38% of his touches come in the final third. Over 190 games for Leverkusen, Frimpong has managed 30 goals and 44 assists, helping them to win the Bundesliga last year. On average this season he has been involved in more goals than Alexander-Arnold but, while the Liverpool defender has been known to step into midfield for club and country, Frimpong prefers to be positioned on the right. With that in mind, Slot could be forced to consider playing with a back three - as Xabi Alonso does at Leverkusen - rather than four, to give Frimpong freedom to go forward without much concern for defending. Alexander-Arnold's defending has often been scrutinised throughout his time at Liverpool, with his ability on the ball being offered up as mitigation for a perceived weakness in defence. His capabilities have often been called into question withRoy Keane calling his defending "schoolboy"earlier this season while there was a supposed lack of trust from former England boss Gareth Southgate. Similar concerns may arise when it comes to Frimpong. Having largely been deployed as an attacking wing-back for Leverkusen, he is not often asked to defend. After leaving Frimpong out of his Netherlands squad in 2023, Koeman said: "He plays almost as a right winger. My right-back should be able to defend well in the first place and I have my doubts about that." Frimpong's stats suggest a lack of involvement defensively with just 22% of his touches this season coming in his own half, compared to Alexander-Arnold's 48%. Whether Slot would change his system to accommodate Frimpong's style remains to be seen. Many fans will hear of Frimpong's potential arrival and wonder why it is necessary with Conor Bradley among Liverpool's ranks. Slot has said the club "have a lot in confidence" in Bradley being able to step up, with the Northern Ireland international covering Alexander-Arnold's injury spell last season. But with Bradley just 21, Slot will be mindful of not relying too much on him. The head coach has also suggested fitness is something Bradley needs to work on. He has made 17 league appearances this season - starting just five matches - including most recently against Arsenal because Slot said "he needs playing time to be better prepared for next season". Bradley also produced an eye-catching display against Real Madrid in the Champions League in November. His touch maps from this league campaign are similar to those of Alexander-Arnold's with a fairly even spread down the right-hand side, which makes sense in Slot's system.
How does Liverpool target Frimpong compare with Alexander-Arnold?
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Liverpool Targets Jeremie Frimpong as Potential Replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold"
Bbc News
8.0
TruthLens AI Summary
As Liverpool prepares for the potential departure of their star right-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, to Real Madrid, the club is actively pursuing Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen as a replacement. Alexander-Arnold has been a pivotal figure in Liverpool's success, contributing significantly with 18 goals and 64 assists. However, his defensive capabilities have faced scrutiny, leading to questions about his overall effectiveness. In contrast, Frimpong, a product of Manchester City's academy, is characterized as a more direct player who thrives on dribbling past opponents. His style leans more towards that of a wing-back or right-winger, often creating threats further up the pitch. This season, Frimpong has outperformed Alexander-Arnold in terms of dribbles, showcasing his attacking prowess, although he has fewer passes to his name. With 38% of his touches occurring in the final third, Frimpong's offensive involvement is evident, having scored 30 goals and provided 44 assists over his time at Leverkusen, including a Bundesliga championship last year.
The tactical implications of signing Frimpong could be significant for Liverpool. While Alexander-Arnold has occasionally stepped into midfield roles, Frimpong's positioning is primarily on the right flank, which may necessitate a shift in Liverpool's formation to allow him the freedom to attack without defensive responsibilities. Concerns about defensive capabilities are prevalent, as both players have faced criticism in this regard. Frimpong's statistics indicate a limited defensive involvement, with only 22% of his touches occurring in his own half, compared to Alexander-Arnold's 48%. Liverpool's head coach, Arne Slot, must weigh the potential of Frimpong against the existing options in the squad, including Conor Bradley, a promising young talent who has shown flashes of brilliance but needs more experience. Slot has expressed confidence in Bradley's abilities while also acknowledging the need for depth in the right-back position as the club navigates a transition period following Alexander-Arnold's anticipated exit.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article examines the potential replacement for Liverpool's star right-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is reportedly on the verge of a summer transfer to Real Madrid. It highlights Jeremie Frimpong as a key target for Liverpool and contrasts the playing styles and statistical contributions of the two players. The analysis aims to provide insight into how Frimpong might fit into Liverpool's system while evaluating his strengths and weaknesses compared to Alexander-Arnold.
Purpose and Target Audience
This piece aims to inform Liverpool fans and football enthusiasts about the ongoing transfer developments and potential changes in the team's structure. By focusing on Frimpong's capabilities, the article seeks to generate excitement about the possibility of his arrival and to address concerns about filling the gap left by Alexander-Arnold. The tone suggests a sense of urgency and optimism regarding the team's future.
Public Perception
The article fosters a perception that Liverpool is proactive and strategic in addressing potential roster changes. By emphasizing Frimpong's offensive strengths and comparing them to Alexander-Arnold's, it may lead readers to feel more confident in the club's ability to maintain its competitive edge. The narrative likely aims to reassure fans that a capable replacement is being pursued.
Hidden Aspects
While the article predominantly focuses on player statistics and stylistic differences, it may understate the emotional impact of losing a player like Alexander-Arnold, who has been pivotal to Liverpool's recent successes. Additionally, it does not delve into the financial implications of such a transfer or the broader context of Liverpool's transfer strategy, which could be relevant to fans and analysts alike.
Manipulative Elements
The article does not appear overtly manipulative; however, it selectively highlights Frimpong's strengths while downplaying his weaknesses. The framing of the comparison may skew public perception in favor of Frimpong without addressing potential concerns about his experience or adaptability to Liverpool's style of play.
Reliability of Information
The reliability of the article seems solid, as it draws on statistical comparisons and quotes from credible sources, such as Ronald Koeman. However, the true accuracy will depend on the ongoing developments in the transfer market and how Liverpool’s management communicates these changes.
Societal Impact
The discussion around player transfers can influence fan sentiment and engagement, potentially affecting ticket sales, merchandise, and overall club revenue. The emphasis on Frimpong could lead to increased anticipation and support from fans, particularly if he performs well upon joining.
Community Support
Support for this type of article is likely to come from football fans, particularly those invested in Liverpool's success. The focus on player statistics and potential developments appeals to a community that values performance analysis and strategic discussions.
Market Influence
While this article may not directly impact stock prices, it can influence public sentiment regarding Liverpool FC's brand value. The performance of the club and its players can indirectly affect associated businesses, such as merchandise sales and sponsorship deals.
Geopolitical Context
Although the article does not directly engage with geopolitical issues, the movement of high-profile players like Alexander-Arnold can symbolize broader trends in sports economics and player mobility, reflecting the increasing globalization of football.
AI Involvement
There is a possibility that AI tools were used in crafting this article, especially in data analysis and statistical comparisons. The structured presentation of player statistics suggests a methodical approach that could be assisted by predictive analytics or data aggregation models.
The article serves its purpose well by informing readers about potential changes in Liverpool's roster while fostering a sense of optimism regarding the future.