Liverpool are urgently searching for a replacement for Conor Bradley after a season-ending knee injury
Liverpool are urgently looking for a replacement for Conor Bradley, who will be sidelined for several months with a knee injury.
Liverpool’s January transfer plans have been thrown into disarray following confirmation that Conor Bradley has suffered a season-ending knee injury.
The 22-year-old suffered a serious knee injury during Thursday’s 0-0 draw with Arsenal.
Liverpool are looking for a replacement for Conor Bradley
Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg confirmed that the club are now in an “urgent” search for cover, but quickly dispelled any major rumours.
Despite widespread reports in Germany linking Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson to Anfield,
Plettenberg told X: “Be aware that Liverpool are urgently looking for a replacement for Conor Bradley, who is out for several months with a knee injury. Many options are being considered in the current transfer window. You have been told that Julian Ryerson is not a candidate for Liverpool.”
?? Understand that Liverpool are urgently looking for a replacement for Conor #Bradleywho will be sidelined for several months due to a knee injury.
Various options are explored in the current transfer window.
? You have been told that Julian Ryerson is not currently a candidate for… pic.twitter.com/fktW1bJB3C
– Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 12, 2026
The injury comes at a critical moment for Arne Slot. With Liverpool currently fighting to close the gap on the league leaders, losing Bradley is a huge blow.
Liverpool are now left with Frimpong as their only senior specialist.
While Joe Gomez can cover, his lack of offensive output hinders the Slot scheme.
Plettenberg’s update suggests the club is working around the clock to find a solution that balances immediate impact with long-term value, rather than panic-buying a stopgap like Ryerson.
Three Liverpool defenders could be looking to sign in January
Liverpool’s recruitment team may turn their attention to profiles that match the high intensity requirements of the Slot.
Givairo Funda (Feyenoord)
Very reasonable link. The 19-year-old flourished under Slot’s guidance at Feyenoord and has continued to impress in the Eredivisie.
He offers a similar profile to Bradley, who is strong in the fight and has unlimited energy to get through.
His inherent understanding of Slot’s tactical needs will allow him to slot in quickly.
Vanderson (AS Monaco)
If Liverpool want a physical presence, the Brazilian is a prime candidate.
A long-time favorite of Premier League scouts, Vanderson combines a 6ft frame with explosive pace. He would be a more expensive option but he provides the defensive toughness Slot seems to crave in that role.
Martim Fernandes (Porto):
The 19-year-old Porto defender has been linked with Liverpool.
The Reds have been among the Premier League’s top clubs for him in the past.
He can provide decent cover and competition for the likes of Bradley and Frimpong at full back.
