Liverpool Transfer News: Conor Bradley Replacement Identified as Contract Talks Confirmed

Liverpool FC faces a defensive crisis after right-back Conor Bradley suffered a serious knee injury in a 0-0 draw against Arsenal, ruling him out for the remainder of the 2025/26 season. The 22-year-old Northern Irishman underwent surgery for bone and ligament damage—confirmed not to be an ACL—and was stretchered off following a controversial incident involving Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli, widely criticized as "idiotic" by pundits like Gary Neville.[1][2]

Bradley’s absence is a major blow to manager Arne Slot, who now lacks reliable options at right-back. Jeremie Frimpong, the natural deputy, has struggled when deployed there and is preferred in advanced roles, while Joe Gomez can makeshift cover from center-back.[1][2] This has accelerated Liverpool's January transfer plans, with scouts assessing "top-class" right-backs, according to ex-Manchester United recruiter Mick Brown.[1]

Julian Ryerson emerges as a prime target. Reports indicate Liverpool are now considering a move for the Borussia Dortmund versatile defender as Bradley's direct replacement, prompted by the injury's severity.[3] Fans are divided: some demand promoting forgotten Klopp signing Calvin Ramsay, the 22-year-old Scot who has featured just once this season (a League Cup loss to Crystal Palace), while others push for marquee incomings.[2][4]

Earlier, Liverpool had cooled right-back pursuits awaiting Bradley's return from prior injury, but this setback changes everything. Brown emphasized the need for depth: "Liverpool could be forced to bring in a right-back... losing him will be a blow."[1] Amid this, contract talks with key players are confirmed ongoing, signaling a busy window to bolster Slot's squad currently sitting fourth in the Premier League after 21 games.[2]

The Reds must act swiftly to avoid vulnerabilities, balancing youth promotion with proven imports like Ryerson.

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