Liverpool have ‘Opened Talks’ to Sign £25m Brazilian Star – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Open Talks with Vanderson as Potential Alexander-Arnold Successor

According to GOAL, Liverpool have officially opened discussions with AS Monaco regarding Vanderson, the 23-year-old Brazilian right-back, as they prepare for life without Trent Alexander-Arnold. With the academy graduate edging closer to an early move to Real Madrid—who are reportedly offering a modest €1 million (£850k) to secure his release ahead of the Club World Cup—Liverpool are now firmly in the market for a ready-made replacement.

It’s not just the departure that is drawing urgency; while Conor Bradley impressed last season, the club recognises the need for experienced competition as they enter a new chapter under Arne Slot, fresh off his historic Premier League title in his first year at the helm.

Why Vanderson is a Strong Contender

Liverpool’s scouting focus appears to be split between high-octane, attack-minded full-backs and more balanced options. While Jeremie Frimpong remains a name of interest—particularly with his €35 million (£30m) release clause considered “below market value”—the reported contact with Vanderson, as per ESPN Brazil, suggests a more financially measured approach.

Photo: IMAGO

Since joining Monaco in January 2022 from Grêmio for €11 million, Vanderson has quietly evolved into one of Europe’s most statistically impressive full-backs. This season, across 34 appearances, he has recorded 2 goals and 3 assists and consistently ranks in the top percentile across key defensive and transitional metrics:

These figures, drawn from FBref, present a player not only defensively assured but capable of transitioning play in a manner reminiscent of Manchester City’s Kyle Walker. It’s little surprise that he earned his senior Brazil cap in June 2023, a testament to his development and consistency.

Financial Prudence and Squad Balance

Monaco’s willingness to sell for around €30 million (£25.6 million) makes Vanderson an appealing alternative to pricier targets. Still under contract until 2027, Monaco are in no rush, but they are open to negotiation—a stance Liverpool could look to exploit early in the window.

This price point, combined with Vanderson’s all-round skill set, positions him as an ideal foil for the younger Bradley. It’s a tactical move: preserve funds for other areas—potentially centre-back or midfield reinforcements—while securing a player who can both challenge and guide a rising star.

As GOAL rightly notes, “With Alexander-Arnold’s exit freeing up wages and a starting role, Liverpool could view Vanderson as a cost-effective solution.” And that could prove critical in what may be a summer of transition.

Slot’s System Could Suit Vanderson

Although the Premier League poses a distinct challenge from Ligue 1, Vanderson’s physical profile and high-tempo style could be a seamless fit in Arne Slot’s system. Known for his emphasis on structure, pressing, and ball progression, Slot would likely value Vanderson’s ability to recover possession and contribute to build-up phases.

Photo: IMAGO

“His tenacity and overlapping runs have drawn comparisons to Manchester City’s Kyle Walker,” GOAL notes—suggesting that Vanderson could slot straight into the dynamic tactical framework that has delivered immediate silverware at Anfield.

Whether this contact progresses into a concrete bid remains to be seen, but the intention is clear: Liverpool are not waiting to be caught flat-footed.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

There’s a lot to unpack here from a Liverpool fan’s point of view. First, let’s acknowledge the big red elephant in the room—Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving. While his exit might be softened by the €1m windfall and Real Madrid’s haste, his creative brilliance and local legacy can’t be easily replaced. Conor Bradley has shown massive promise, but nobody forgets that Anfield expects immediate quality, especially with European ambitions next season.

Vanderson feels like a calculated gamble. At €30 million, he’s not a bargain basement pick, but he isn’t breaking the bank either. His stats look great on paper—especially defensively—but it’s his consistency and physical presence that makes him stand out. That’s something we’ve lacked at times, especially when Trent has been pushed into midfield roles.

Frimpong would excite with his flair, but Vanderson might be the more ‘Liverpool’ signing—young, disciplined, hungry, and still with a point to prove. That’s what Klopp loved. And it seems Slot’s system would demand that same profile: players who can defend hard and play smart.

This move feels pragmatic, not sentimental, and that’s refreshing. Slot clearly has a plan. If Vanderson joins, don’t be surprised if he starts strong and becomes another smart piece of Liverpool’s post-Klopp puzzle.