Michael Owen tips this player to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold at Liverpool
Michael Owen has given his verdict on the Liverpool right-back situation with Trent Alexander-Arnold linked with an exit.
The England international appears to be on his way to Real Madrid this summer with his contract running out at the end of the season.
Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk’s contracts were also expiring, but both put pen to paper on new deals, unlike the right-back.
Owen backs Conor Bradley to be the first-choice right-back
Owen believes that Conor Bradley is good enough to be the first-choice right-back for Arne Slot’s side next season.
Rather than signing a replacement for Alexander-Arnold, who would undoubtedly cost a lot of money, the former Reds forward believes they should bring in someone to be Bradley’s backup.
In his view, he is better defensively than the English right-back and even in terms of his attacking output, he’s not that far away from being at his level.
Speaking on Premier League Productions, Owen said on 4 May at 1:26pm: “Is Connor Bradley good enough? I think so. I would absolutely do that (make him first choice) and maybe buy cover in case something happens to him. If Trent is a 10/10 attacker and 6/10 defender, this guy is an 8 and 8.”
Liverpool need to sign an upgrade on Bradley
With Alexander-Arnold’s expected departure to Real Madrid, the Reds need to sign a right-back as good as or better than Bradley to maintain their Premier League dominance.
Alexander-Arnold’s unparalleled creativity leaves a void Bradley, despite his promise, cannot fully fill at Liverpool.
The Northern Ireland international’s dynamic runs and defensive tenacity are impressive, but his injury record and lack of an elite passing range raise concerns about his readiness as a first-choice.
| Premier League appearances (2024-25) | Trent Alexander-Arnold |
| Apperances | 15 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Yellow cards | 3 |
| Minutes played | 526 |
Slot’s system, reliant on structured build-up and attacking full-backs, demands a reliable, high-calibre replacement like Jeremie Frimpong, who can offer a similar attacking output as Trent without the defensive lapses.
Without a top-tier signing, Liverpool risk weakening their right flank, undermining Salah’s effectiveness and their title defence.
A new right-back is essential to evolve the squad and sustain success.