The transfer saga surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold has taken a dramatic twist as Real Madrid reportedly communicated their interest in signing the Liverpool right-back on a free transfer next summer.
With the player’s current contract set to expire in June 2025, the Reds face mounting pressure to secure the future of one of their most prized assets.
At 26 years old, Alexander-Arnold is already regarded as one of the best right-backs in football. Since making his Liverpool debut in October 2016, he has contributed an impressive 102 goal involvements, consisting of 19 goals and 83 assists. These numbers, combined with his instrumental role in securing seven major trophies for the club, underline his immense value.
However, the clock is ticking. From January 1, Alexander-Arnold will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs. Real Madrid have long been linked with the England international, and reports suggest they have formally informed Liverpool of their intention to sign him in 2025.
Despite these developments, an agreement for a contract extension at Anfield has yet to materialize. According to leading journalists David Ornstein and James Pearce, Liverpool are actively working to renew Alexander-Arnold’s deal, but negotiations remain unresolved. “There is strong interest from Spain and other countries,” the report notes. “Liverpool would like to keep him, but this is an ongoing, live situation with no clear outcome yet.”
Real Madrid’s interest comes as no surprise. The LaLiga giants have been without a natural right-back since Dani Carvajal suffered a season-ending ACL injury earlier this campaign. Sources claim Madrid have maintained regular contact about a potential deal for Alexander-Arnold, with confirmation of their intentions reportedly made after last week’s Champions League clash at Anfield.
Carlo Ancelotti, speaking before the match, avoided discussing the possibility of signing the Liverpool star. “I’m sorry, but I cannot think about Alexander-Arnold. He is not my player,” the Real Madrid boss stated, while emphasizing his respect for Liverpool as a club.
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Adding fuel to speculation is Alexander-Arnold’s strong friendship with England teammate Jude Bellingham, now a key figure at Real Madrid. However, Bellingham dismissed any talks of a reunion in Spain, insisting his focus was on international duty and Liverpool’s immediate challenges.
Liverpool, meanwhile, appear to be taking a calm approach to the situation. Sources suggest the club is confident of retaining Alexander-Arnold despite the looming January window. Their focus, reportedly, is on strengthening other areas of the squad, including the left-back position.
The Reds are heavily linked with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez as a long-term successor to Andy Robertson. Atalanta’s Matteo Ruggeri has also emerged as a potential target, though competition from Manchester United and Manchester City could complicate any move.
For now, Liverpool supporters will hope the club can tie down their homegrown star to a long-term deal. Alexander-Arnold is not just a key player; he embodies the spirit of the club, having risen through its ranks to achieve success at the highest level.
The uncertainty surrounding his future is bound to dominate headlines in the coming months. Whether Liverpool can secure his loyalty or whether Real Madrid’s charm offensive proves too strong remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Alexander-Arnold’s next move will shape the future of both Liverpool and any club lucky enough to acquire his services.