Liverpool Could Replace Trent Alexander-Arnold with ‘Aggressive’ £16m Defender – Opinion | OneFootball

Martim Fernandes – Could Porto’s Young Full-Back Be Liverpool’s Answer to Trent’s Exit?

This piece is based on a report compiled by Sam McGuire, which I would recommend to everyone, and has been expanded upon to learn more about Martim Fernandes, an emerging talent at Porto who has been linked with Liverpool. With Trent Alexander-Arnold seemingly destined for Real Madrid as his contract nears expiration, Arne Slot and Michael Edwards must find a suitable replacement. Given Trent’s importance in Liverpool’s tactical setup, any successor must be an elite passer of the ball—something Fernandes has already shown in a small but highly impressive sample size.

Martim Fernandes – Player Profile

Club: FC Porto

Nationality: Portugal

Age: 19 years old

Date of Birth: February 23, 2006

Position: Right-Back

Height: 1.81m

Preferred Foot: Right

2024/25 Appearances: 27 games

2024/25 Assists: 5

Passing Accuracy: 86%

Progressive Passes per 90: 6.3

Crossing Accuracy: 29%

Contract Expiry: June 30, 2028

Market Value: €8 million

Potential Transfer Fee: €20 million/£16.6 million

An On-Ball Threat to Replace Trent

Replacing Alexander-Arnold is an unenviable task. His ability to dictate play, progress the ball, and deliver pinpoint passes has been crucial to Liverpool’s system for years. Fernandes, while still in the early stages of his career, already shows traits that mirror Trent’s on-ball influence.

With a passing accuracy of 86%, Fernandes is a reliable distributor, capable of breaking lines and switching play with ease. His 6.3 progressive passes per 90 minutes demonstrate an ability to move the ball upfield efficiently—vital in a Liverpool side that will continue to rely on full-backs for creativity. While his sample size at the senior level remains small, the early indicators suggest he could grow into a high-volume playmaker from deep.

Defensively Sound and Positionally Intelligent

One area where Liverpool has sometimes struggled with Trent is defensive positioning. Fernandes, however, has already shown strong instincts in this regard. He is aggressive in duels, quick to anticipate danger, and adept at covering space—qualities that align well with the demands of the modern game.

Playing under Porto’s tactically disciplined system has allowed him to develop a defensive awareness beyond his years. He is composed under pressure and rarely gets caught out in transition, a key trait given Liverpool’s tendency to push full-backs high up the pitch.

A Star in the Making

At 19, Fernandes still has plenty of development ahead of him, but his rapid rise at Porto suggests he won’t remain under the radar for long. He has already been trusted in big matches and has handled the step-up with confidence, which bodes well for a potential move to a high-pressure environment like Anfield.

His ability to operate both as an attacking full-back and an inverted playmaker makes him an intriguing option for Slot, who will need tactical flexibility in the post-Klopp era. With Liverpool expected to evolve their playing style under new management, having a right-back capable of slotting into midfield zones while also offering width could be crucial.

The Right Signing at the Right Time?

With Real Madrid circling for Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool must plan ahead. Fernandes is not a like-for-like replacement, but his skill set suggests he could grow into a similar role. At a reported €20 million, he would be a long-term investment with immense upside—especially given his age and room for development.

Slot and Edwards must decide whether to pursue an immediate, proven replacement or invest in young talent with elite potential. If they opt for the latter, Fernandes could be the perfect addition. He wouldn’t just fill the gap left by Trent—he could develop into a star in his own right, ensuring that Liverpool’s right-back position remains one of the most creative in Europe.