BREAKING NEWS: Coming live from Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool prepare for life without Trent Alexander Arnold as the beat Barcelona to signing star replacement.

Liverpool seems to be preparing for a future without Trent Alexander-Arnold, as reports from Spain indicate that manager Arne Slot is looking to acquire a new right-back, possibly outmaneuvering Barcelona in the process. Alexander-Arnold is in the final year of his contract, and Real Madrid has targeted him as a key player, hoping to sign the 26-year-old on a free transfer next summer.

While Liverpool aims to persuade Alexander-Arnold to extend his contract, he has expressed interest in joining Real Madrid to pursue more trophies. Amid this uncertainty, the club is exploring potential replacements. According to El Nacional, they are considering Oscar Mingueza, a versatile right-back from Celta Vigo.

Mingueza has started the season strongly, scoring twice and assisting five times in nine matches, attracting Liverpool’s attention, especially due to his €20 million release clause. His previous club, Barcelona, still holds 50% of his rights and had contemplated re-signing him for a lower fee. However, Liverpool’s interest has reportedly made Barcelona resigned to losing one of their main targets.

Liverpool appears to have an advantage in the race for Mingueza, who developed in Barcelona’s youth system and made over 50 first-team appearances before transferring to Celta Vigo for €3 million in 2022. Despite Barcelona’s hopes of bringing him back, reports suggest that Liverpool is ready to make a significant effort to secure his signature.

Mingueza’s contract with Celta Vigo runs until 2026, and he has one cap for the Spanish national team. His versatility—able to play right-back, center-back, and wing-back—makes him appealing to Slot and a strong candidate for Liverpool’s defense.

A potential January transfer could materialize if Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid becomes more likely. Celta Vigo reportedly prefers selling Mingueza to Liverpool over Barcelona, as the English club could offer a more lucrative deal. If Liverpool pursues this transfer mid-season, it would allow them to secure a capable replacement and enhance their defensive options during a critical phase of their campaign.

With Alexander-Arnold’s future uncertain, Liverpool is not waiting idly; they are actively seeking players who can fill the gap left by one of their key players. Mingueza’s strong start and adaptability make him a suitable candidate to bolster Liverpool’s defense if needed.The competition for Mingueza highlights Liverpool’s strategic moves in the transfer market, as they look to strengthen their squad while preparing for possible exits. This situation may also heighten the rivalry with Barcelona, who had hoped to re-sign him. However, with Liverpool appearing ready to take decisive action, Mingueza’s future may lean toward the Premier League rather than a return to La Liga.