Liverpool transfer news: Frimpong boost as Arne Slot makes priority clear

Liverpool have announced the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold and the search is on to find a new right-back, with Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong linked to Anfield

If you're not going forward, you're going backward, goes the phrase, and Liverpool's transfer plans suggest that they don't intend to stand still. The Reds are fresh off being crowned Premier League champions and haven't even lifted the trophy.

But the wheels are turning on what Arne Slot has hinted will be a 'big summer'. After the futures of Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk were resolved with new two-year deals for the pair, Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes isn't facing as much of a rebuild.

The Reds will, though, need to find a new right-back after Trent Alexander-Arnold confirmed that he'd be leaving Anfield at the end of his contract this summer. Whether it's a first-choice addition or someone who can play backup to young Conor Bradley, Liverpool are expected to delve into the market in light of Alexander-Arnold's decision.

But defence isn't the only area which is likely to be addressed. Slot tried to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi last summer, suggesting that he sees a vacancy in the middle of the park, while the Reds can't rely on Salah to carry the attack with another 33-goal season next term.

Here's a round-up of the latest transfer news from Anfield.

Barcelona hit stumbling Frimpong block

Barcelona would find it 'very difficult' to sign Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong, who Liverpool have also been linked with. Frimpong, 24, has shone for Leverkusen again this season, excelling as a wing-back under Xabi Alonso.

The Netherlands international's performances have led Barca manager Hansi Flick and the club's sporting director, Deco, to agree on pursuing him. But, as reported by Sport, Barcelona's well-documented financial woes would make signing Frimpong a challenge, despite his release clause being a relatively low £34million.

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Liverpool target Stiller for No.6 role

Arne Slot has prioritised the signing of Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller after being impressed by the 24-year-old's tactical maturity and organisational skills. That's according to Fichajes, who say that the Liverpool boss has put Stiller on his list of priorities.

The former Bayern Munich prospect helped Stuttgart qualify for the Champions League last season at the base of their midfield and has improved his attacking output this term. Stiller has four goals and nine assists in 45 appearances, prompting Stuttgart to slap a £50m price tag on his head.

Sesko gets new release clause

RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has earned himself a higher release clause amid links of a move to Liverpool. The Reds are among a number of Premier League clubs who've been tipped to sign the Slovenian, who has 21 goals to his name this season.

Sky Germany report that Sesko's performance-related release clause means that he's now valued at over £68m. The 21-year-old's exit is still possible this summer without the clause being activated, although Leipzig would likely to demand a higher total fee and a different payment structure.