Liverpool 'Urgently' Hunting Conor Bradley Replacement but One Signing Ruled Out

Liverpool FC have no plans to sign a right-back in the January transfer window despite Conor Bradley's devastating season-ending knee injury, according to reliable reports[1][3]. The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international suffered significant ligament and bone damage during the closing stages of Liverpool's 0-0 draw at Arsenal, as confirmed by scans and reported by Paul Joyce in The Times[1].

Speculation arose from Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg claiming Anfield chiefs were 'urgently searching for a replacement', but this has been firmly contradicted by David Ornstein in The Athletic's Transfer DealSheet. Ornstein states Liverpool 'do not intend to sign' a right-back this month, aligning with the club's cautious approach to avoid permanent deals for short-term needs[1]. It's anticipated Bradley could return for pre-season in summer, making a big-money January move unnecessary[1].

Liverpool boast internal options to cover the position. Jeremie Frimpong is a natural right-back choice, while Joe Gomez has extensive experience there. Midfielders Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones could also fill in if required, mitigating risks until the season's end[1]. The Reds' strategy reflects their aversion to knee-jerk reactions amid fan pressure, prioritizing squad depth over panic buys[1].

Additionally, Liverpool have endured multiple defensive blows, with youth player Giovanni Leoni also sidelined for the season, yet no defensive reinforcements are expected in January[3]. While the logic holds—avoiding vast expenditure for a few months—concerns linger over potential right-back shortages if injuries strike existing cover under manager Arne Slot[1].

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