Liverpool chase Arne Slot favourite as Arsenal eyes same right‑back

Liverpool are desperate to plug a glaring right‑back hole after Trent Alexander‑Arnold left last summer and Jeremie Frimpong failed to meet expectations, prompting the club to monitor a player praised by former manager Arne Slot.

Defensive shortcomings force urgent recruitment

The Dutchman’s tenure at Liverpool ended abruptly a season after the Premier League title, with the Reds finishing fifth in the league and bowing out in the round of 16 of the Champions League. Fans interpreted the poor defence as a sign that another massive rebuild was inevitable, even after four summer signings arrived.

Slot’s favourite Givairo Read emerges as target

Read, who debuted for Feyenoord under Slot, has become the Dutch manager’s favourite defender. The 20‑year‑old has featured in eight games across all competitions this season and already supplied five assists, a striking return for his age.

Liverpool also secured Ronald Araujo on loan for the 2026‑27 season, attaching a €55 million option to buy. At 28 years old by June 2027, the Uruguayan defender brings experience but carries a steep price tag.

FSG weigh up £47 million Araujo fee amid Liverpool doubts

Current right‑back options include Joe Gomez, Jeremie Frimpong and the loaned Araujo, yet an injury to Conor Bradley could expose a serious shortage. If Liverpool decline the option on Araujo, their main right‑back for the 2026‑27 campaign would depart.

Rumours suggest Arsenal are also keen on Read, meaning the January transfer window – still months away – could become a battleground for the player. Liverpool’s monitoring of the defender continues despite the waiting period.

Should Liverpool decide Read is the next Alexander‑Arnold, the club appears ready to meet a hefty fee, believing the youngster’s assist record and Slot endorsement justify the investment.