Real Madrid’s pursuit of Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has been well documented.
The club are determined to sign the Englishman on a Bosman deal, with the player’s contract at Anfield expiring at the end of the season.
But while the initial plan was to secure the 26-year-old on a free transfer in the summer, the possibility of an earlier move has emerged.
Liverpool may consider a January move
According to Transfer News Live (h/t Real Madrid Confidencial), Liverpool may be open to selling Alexander-Arnold in January for a fee of around €30 million, should he refuse to renew his contract.
This development presents a golden opportunity for Real Madrid to acquire the talented defender ahead of schedule.
However, Liverpool’s reluctance to weaken their squad mid-season remains a significant hurdle.
Will Liverpool allow Alexander-Arnold to leave in January? (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
The club are aware of Alexander-Arnold’s desire to join Real Madrid but is determined to protect their interests. They are likely to resist any attempts to lure the player away in January, unless a substantial offer is made.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, are eager to bolster their defensive line with a player of Alexander-Arnold’s caliber.
The club’s sporting management is confident that the Englishman will ultimately join the Merengues, either in January or the following summer.
While negotiations are ongoing, it remains to be seen whether a deal can be struck in the upcoming transfer window.
The club could certainly use the services of Alexander-Arnold from January onwards, as he could be a significant upgrade over Lucas Vazquez, who has been filling in for the injured Dani Carvajal.