Liverpool’s post-Trent Alexander-Arnold rebuild remains a work in progress, with Jeremie Frimpong yet to establish himself consistently in the right-back role. The Netherlands international arrived from Bayer Leverkusen for approximately £30 million, but Liverpool have continued to assess alternatives and additional defensive cover.
One player considered during the summer was Marco Palestra, who ultimately joined Chelsea. Liverpool also explored other options under former sporting director Richard Hughes, including Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez after they failed to secure Nuno Mendes from Paris Saint-Germain.
Liverpool’s wider recruitment plans have included several ambitious pursuits. The club reportedly made a £50 million offer for Crystal Palace winger Ismaïla Sarr, but Palace rejected it, while Antoine Semenyo eventually joined Manchester City after attracting interest from Liverpool. These moves show the club’s desire to add pace and versatility, although not every target was secured.
Chelsea, meanwhile, have tied down Pedro Neto on improved terms until 2032. The Portugal international attracted reported interest from Manchester City and other clubs during the summer, but he chose to remain at Stamford Bridge under Xabi Alonso. Neto has made 108 appearances for Chelsea and recorded 40 goal contributions since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2024.
Neto has also been used as a right wing-back in Alonso’s system, adding tactical flexibility beyond his traditional role as a winger. His new contract includes an option for a further season and ends the immediate speculation surrounding a move away from west London.
Liverpool are also monitoring PSV Eindhoven midfielder Paul Wanner. The 20-year-old German joined PSV from Bayern Munich in 2025 and is reportedly valued by the Dutch club at between €45 million and €50 million. Liverpool face competition from Real Madrid, Manchester City and Bayern Munich, although there is no indication that a formal bid has been made.
Wanner has not yet become an automatic starter at PSV, so the transfer reports remain preliminary. Liverpool’s interest reflects a desire to add mobility and creativity in midfield, but the club must first determine whether Wanner is ready for a major step and whether PSV’s valuation can be justified.
