Conor Bradley Nearing Liverpool Contract Extension
Conor Bradley is reportedly close to securing a new contract with Liverpool, with Graeme Bailey telling TBR that negotiations for a five-year deal have progressed. The agreement would see the Northern Irishman receive a salary increase.
Despite this, Liverpool is still planning to sign a new right-back this summer, suggesting the club sees the need for additional depth in the position.
Liverpool’s Confidence in Bradley
It remains to be seen if new head coach Arne Slot and his staff view Bradley as the long-term successor to Trent Alexander-Arnold, should the latter move to Real Madrid. However, what is clear is that Liverpool holds the 21-year-old in high regard, especially after standout performances this season against top-level opponents.
Jamie Carragher has been vocal in his praise, telling Sky Sports:
> “When Liverpool have had Conor Bradley in the team this season, he’s looked the real deal. I don’t think the right-back market this summer is overflowing with top-tier options. If Trent leaves, Liverpool should trust Bradley while also bringing in a versatile defender who can cover multiple positions, much like Joe Gomez has in recent years.”
One of Bradley’s most notable displays was his solid defensive showing against Kylian Mbappe and Real Madrid in the Champions League group stage, further reinforcing his potential.
A new contract would signal significant faith in the young defender’s abilities heading into the next campaign. However, improving his durability will be crucial. Missing 16 games in a season, as he has due to injuries in 2024/25, cannot become a recurring issue if he is to be Liverpool’s first-choice right-back.
Right-Back Not a Priority Signing
While Liverpool remains open to bringing in another right-back—at least to provide competition—there are more pressing areas to address. Reported talks between Arne Slot and Jeremie Frimpong indicate that other positions take precedence.
With uncertainty surrounding the futures of Virgil van Dijk and Mo Salah, who could leave when their contracts expire in June, Liverpool’s recruitment team faces a massive challenge. Replacing a world-class center-back and a forward who guarantees 20-plus goals per season will likely take priority over reinforcing the right-back position.