Liverpool 'urgently' hunting Conor Bradley replacement but one signing ruled out

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 reports from reliable sources[1][2]. The 22-year-old Northern Irish international suffered significant ligament and bone damage during the closing stages of Liverpool's 0-0 draw at Arsenal, ruling him out for the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign, though pre-season return is anticipated[1][2].

Speculation arose from Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg claiming Anfield chiefs were 'urgently searching for a replacement', but this was firmly contradicted by The Athletic's David Ornstein, who stated Liverpool 'do not intend to sign' a right-back this month[1]. The club's longstanding policy against panic buys or short-term permanent deals for a few months' cover underpins this decision, even amid fan pressure[1][2].

Liverpool's right-back depth provides options post-Trent Alexander-Arnold's summer departure. Jeremie Frimpong, signed for £29.5m from Bayer Leverkusen, is the natural successor despite his own hamstring issues earlier this season; he's been fit since Christmas and started four Premier League games[2]. Versatile squad members like Joe Gomez offer experience, while midfielders Dominik Szoboszlai (deployed five times this term) and Curtis Jones can deputise if needed[1][2].

Additionally, Liverpool are likely to block a loan move for Calvin Ramsay, keeping the Scot at Anfield as backup amid Bradley's absence[3]. No plans exist for cover targeting long-term absentees like Giovanni Leoni or Alexander Isak either[2]. Concerns linger over potential shortages if injuries strike Frimpong, but Arne Slot's side trusts internal solutions over market intervention[1].

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