Liverpool should repeat Dominik Szoboszlai trick in order to solve two dilemmas with one transfer
Trent Alexander-Arnold has been one of the most exciting breakout stars of the last few years in the Premier League and the England international has firmly nailed down his place as Jurgen Klopp’s first-choice right-back over the last couple of seasons. Thankfully for Liverpool fans, the 24-year-old has remained largely injury-free and although James Milner has occasionally deputised, TAA has been a mainstay of the XI. Unfortunately, the club isn’t blessed with options in this department, and with Milner having left the club this summer, the Reds desperately need reinforcements in this area of the pitch.
Connor Bradley has impressed during pre-season and has been ‘toughened-up’ by his spell with Bolton in League One and if Alexander-Arnold is to gradually make the transition into midfield, the Northern Irishman could be the perfect successor. Nevertheless, Klopp is still searching for another option in this department, and dipping back into the Salzburg pond may be the best option. The Reds are looking for an affordable option and raiding the Austrian club isn’t likely to break the bank.
The two clubs have an existing relationship, which is likely to make negotiations a little easier and Salzburg’s Bosnian right-back Amar Dedic appears to fit the bill. The Reds have looked sharp going forward during pre-season, however, they’ve conceded plenty of goals and although the addition of a right-back isn’t likely to cut out individual errors, it should help them to become far less vulnerable from the flanks.
The 20-year-old is an ideal age and with plenty of improvement still to come, Dedic could be a wise investment. He is quick and direct and is adept with both feet. Liverpool is coming off the back of an underwhelming campaign and fans will be expecting a much-improved movement this time around. Online betting sites such as FanDuel sportsbook have priced up the Reds as third favourites for the Premier League title, and although the signing of a reliable right-back isn’t likely to catapult them to the top of the betting, punters could potentially look on them a little more favourably ahead of their season opener against Chelsea.
Dedic is already showing leadership qualities and has the potential to become a household name in the top flight. He is exceptional in 1vs1 situations and has the athleticism to get up and down the pitch. He posted excellent numbers in the Austrian Bundesliga last season and his versatility would be a huge asset. The Bosnian can also play left-back if required and his capture would allow the attack-minded Alexander-Arnold to move permanently into midfield.