Liverpool eye Italy right‑back as long‑term fix after Alexander‑Arnold exit

Having struggled to replace Trent Alexander‑Arnold since his 2025 departure for Real Madrid, Liverpool are desperate for a permanent right‑back. Injuries to Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong, who arrived from Bayer Leverkusen, forced midfielders into the role last season, underscoring the need for a specialist.

Loan signings highlight the gap

This term the club secured Uruguayan centre‑back Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona, with an option to make the deal permanent for £47 million. While Araujo has settled well, the Merseyside side acknowledge that a long‑term solution at right‑back remains essential.

According to Caught Offside, Michael Kayode, a 22‑year‑old Italy international, has jumped to the top of Liverpool’s recruitment list. The former Juventus youth, who moved to Brentford from Fiorentina in 2025, is renowned for his long throws and has recently cemented his place in the national team.

Kayode’s contract and market value

Kayode helped Brentford to a 4‑1 UEFA Nations League win over Turkiye last week and has signed a new deal at the Gtech Community Stadium until 2032. The report estimates any transfer would exceed £60 million, reflecting his rising profile.

Liverpool are not the only club monitoring him; Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle United are also interested, while Juventus and other Serie A sides keep tabs on the former Juventus product.

The club’s scouting department has placed Kayode at the “top of their watchlist” as they seek to strengthen right‑back rotation. No official bid has been submitted and negotiations have not begun, with the process described as “monitoring and reporting” ahead of the January window.

If Liverpool move before the winter transfer window, Kayode could become the long‑term answer to the void left by Last Alexander‑Arnold, providing the athleticism and defensive reliability the Reds have lacked since his exit.