Andy Robertson faces Liverpool ultimatum as Alan Shearer identifies Curtis Jones problem
Andy Robertson could be on his way out of Anfield this coming transfer window as Arne Slot weighs up his defensive options in the event of a full-back clearout
Arne Slot could find himself in a defensive pickle this summer as the Liverpool manager looks to replace the reportedly outgoing Trent Alexander-Arnold - and potentially Andy Robertson. The defensive duo have been an electric addition to the heart of the Reds' defence, contributing to 28 goals and 123 assists together in the Premier League.
With almost 700 appearances between them for Liverpool, the defenders have an impressive trophy haul - including a Champions League, FA Cup and a Premier League title.
However, with reports that Alexander-Arnold is leaving Liverpool to join Real Madrid on a free transfer, Slot will have to assess his current and future options for the position.
At the moment, midfielder Curtis Jones has been covering the full-back area in Alexander-Arnold's absence after he was forced off the pitch with an ankle injury in Liverpool's Champions League defeat by PSG. Alan Shearer is not convinced that Jones is the long-term solution to this position, though.
Speaking to Betfair, the record Premier League goalscorer said: "Liverpool only have eight games left. They probably only need to win six of them. They'll go on and win the Premier League, and Trent looks to be on the way out, so they'll be looking for a new right-back."
Shearer did note that Conor Bradley could be an option after he stepped in for the injured Alexander-Arnold this season, scoring his debut goal in a 4-1 win against Chelsea in January. He added: "But as I said before, Conor Bradley is already on the scene, and we know what he can do. Curtis Jones may be the answer short-term, but he's not a right-back.
"His best position is as a midfielder but I guess there's no doubt he can do a job at right-back. Long-term, there's no doubt that Curtis Jones is not a right-back."
Alexander-Arnold isn't the only issue in Slot's defensive line. Robertson may also move on if Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez comes to Merseyside. The 21-year-old is seen as an ideal replacement for the Scottish defender as he continues to shine for Andoni Iraola's side this season.
Shearer added: "Every player has a shelf-life, whether that be at a club or your career in general. Whether Liverpool think Andy Robertson needs replacing, the reports sound like they do need and want a left-back for next season so it wouldn't surprise me if they do sign one. Whether that's Milos Kerkez or someone else.
"You have a decision to make as a player where you either roll your sleeves up and give someone great competition or you accept decisions and say that your time is done. Only Andy will know that."
Slot also has the issue of sorting club captain Virgil van Dijk's contract before it runs out in the summer. Following Liverpool's Champions League exit, Van Dijk admitted that while discussions are ongoing, he is none the wiser as to whether he'll stay at Anfield next season.
The 33-year-old said: "I have no idea at the moment. Genuinely, I still have no idea. It is not on hold. Nothing on hold. There are 10 games to go and that is my full focus. If there is news you guys will know it. I don't even know myself.
"Everyone knows there are some conversations behind the scenes but that is about it. At the moment I don't even know what will happen next year. If anyone says they do know, they are lying to your face."