Conor Bradley set for Liverpool pay increase | OneFootball

Liverpool have opened discussions with Conor Bradley over a lucrative new five-year contract, according to The Sun. The Reds want to keep the young Northern Irish defender.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has identified Bradley as the most likely long-term successor to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is widely expected to leave for Real Madrid at the end of the season.

Bradley only signed his last contract 15 months ago, but given the uncertainty surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s future, Liverpool are eager to secure his services until at least 2030.

His current deal runs until 2027, but the club will increase his wages as part of the extension. The 21-year-old currently earns around £10,000 per week and will receive a massive pay rise to approximately £75,000 per week, bringing him in line with several established first-team players.

Bradley’s rise through the ranks has been rapid. He returned to Anfield following an impressive loan spell at League One side Bolton Wanderers during the 2022/23 campaign. He established himself as a key squad member under Jurgen Klopp last season.

The right-back made 23 appearances and was trusted to start in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final victory over Chelsea.

Slot has continued to put faith in Bradley this season, handing him 22 appearances thus far. His performances have validated that trust, with standout displays against Chelsea and Kylian Mbappe in Liverpool’s 2-0 Champions League victory over Real Madrid in November.

With Bradley tied down for the foreseeable future, Liverpool still need to bring in an experienced right-back to replace Alexander-Arnold while the youngster continues to develop, and Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich is the perfect candidate.

The 30-year-old is a free agent this summer and would do an incredible job at Anfield. Kimmich will seamlessly replace Alexander-Arnold.

He is excellent in defence and attack. The German international is a leader and brings winning experience. It is a no-brainer for the Reds.