BREAKING NEWS: Coming live from Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool prepare for life without Trent Alexander Arnold as the beat Barcelona to signing star replacement.
Liverpool appear to be laying the groundwork for a future without Trent Alexander-Arnold, with reports from Spain suggesting that manager Arne Slot is targeting a new right-back, potentially outmaneuvering Barcelona in the process. Alexander-Arnold is currently in the final year of his contract at Anfield, and Real Madrid has identified him as a key transfer target, aiming to secure the 26-year-old on a free transfer next summer.
While Liverpool is still hoping to convince Alexander-Arnold to sign a contract extension, the player has hinted at a desire to join Real Madrid to pursue his ambition of winning more trophies. With the uncertainty surrounding his future, the Reds have started exploring possible replacements. According to El Nacional, their search has led them to Celta Vigo’s versatile right-back Oscar Mingueza.
Mingueza has started the new season in impressive form, scoring twice and providing five assists in just nine appearances. His standout performances have drawn Liverpool’s attention, particularly because of the €20 million release clause in his contract, which makes him an affordable option. The 25-year-old’s previous club, Barcelona, still retains 50% of his rights and had been considering bringing him back for a discounted fee. However, Liverpool’s interest has reportedly left Barcelona “resigned” to missing out on one of their primary targets.
The Reds seem to have the upper hand in the race to sign Mingueza. The Spanish defender came through Barcelona’s youth system and made over 50 appearances for the first team before transferring to Celta Vigo in 2022 for €3 million. The low transfer fee was partly offset by a clause giving Barcelona a share of Mingueza’s rights, with the club hoping to eventually re-sign him. However, reports indicate that Liverpool is prepared to go “all out” to secure Mingueza’s signature and win the battle against the Catalan giants.
Mingueza’s contract with Celta Vigo runs until 2026, and he has earned one cap for the Spanish national team. His versatility is seen as a major asset, as he can play not only as a right-back but also as a center-back and wing-back. This adaptability is said to have convinced Arne Slot of the player’s quality, making him an attractive option for Liverpool’s defensive lineup.
A potential January transfer could come into play if the possibility of Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid becomes more concrete. Celta Vigo reportedly favors selling Mingueza to Liverpool over Barcelona, as the English club’s interest presents a chance for a more profitable deal. Should Liverpool decide to pursue the transfer mid-season, it would allow the Reds to secure a capable replacement and provide Slot with additional options in defense ahead of a crucial stretch in their campaign.
With Alexander-Arnold’s future hanging in the balance, Liverpool is clearly not waiting for uncertainties to resolve. The club is proactively identifying and pursuing players who can fill the potential void left by one of its key stars. Mingueza’s solid start to the season and his ability to cover multiple positions make him a viable candidate to step in and strengthen Liverpool’s backline if the need arises.
The competition for Mingueza’s signature reflects broader strategic moves within the transfer market, where Liverpool is seeking to reinforce its squad while preparing for potential departures. The situation could also intensify the rivalry with Barcelona, as the Catalan club had been hoping to bring back a familiar face. However, with Liverpool appearing ready to act decisively, Mingueza’s future may lie in the Premier League, rather than a return to La Liga’s giants.
