Daniel Carvajal has officially departed Real Madrid after 450 competitive appearances, and transfer speculation is now linking the veteran defender with a surprise move to Liverpool. The Spanish right-back, available on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract at the Bernabéu, can join any club outside the traditional transfer window due to his unattached status.
Joleon Lescott, the former England international and TNT Sports analyst, fuelled the rumours during recent commentary. "I believe Liverpool, Carvajal and a right-back are being talked about. So, yes, I would say Liverpool," Lescott stated, with transfer insider David Ornstein notably declining to dismiss the speculation. The comments reflect growing interest from Merseyside in bolstering their defensive options.
Liverpool's Right-Back Crisis
Arne Slot's side faces a mounting injury crisis in the full-back department. Conor Bradley remains sidelined following knee surgery with no immediate return date, while Joe Gomez is also unavailable. Jeremie Frimpong, signed from Bayer Leverkusen, is currently Liverpool's primary option at right-back but has not yet fully convinced in the Premier League. In recent matches, manager Andoni Iraola deployed Barcelona loanee Ronald Araujo in the role during the 2-0 victory at Ipswich Town, highlighting the depth issues plaguing the Reds' backline.
Carvajal's experience at elite level could provide immediate stability. The defensive stalwart spent over a decade at Madrid's core, establishing himself as one of La Liga's most consistent performers. However, his campaign was disrupted by a cruciate ligament tear sustained in October 2024, limiting his availability for the Spanish giants. After recovering during the summer of 2025, Carvajal struggled to regain regular playing time at the Bernabéu, triggering Madrid's decision not to renew his contract.
If completed, a move to Anfield would represent a significant statement from Liverpool in January. Carvajal's proven pedigree in European competition and defensive acumen could ease the burden on Slot's depleted squad as they navigate the remainder of the season and challenge for domestic and continental honours.
