The former Reds captain could be facing a new problem at Real Madrid following news that Dani Carvajal's future at the Santiago Bernabeu remains unclear
Wesley Franca of AS Roma
Wesley Franca is on Real Madrid's radar
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Trent Alexander-Arnold has experienced a difficult period at Real Madrid since departing Liverpool last summer and could now be confronting a fresh £30 million challenge. According to Spanish publication Defensa Central, Madrid are contemplating the signing of a new right-back this summer, with Dani Carvajal's contract due to expire at the season's conclusion.
AS Roma's Wesley Franca is reported to be a leading candidate to succeed Carvajal, with preliminary discussions already underway in advance of the summer window. It's also understood that Madrid would be prepared to table approximately €35 million (£30m) to secure the Brazilian's signature.
The former Liverpool skipper, Alexander-Arnold, has already been linked with a departure from the Bernabeu, with Liverpool's rivals Manchester City closely monitoring developments ahead of the summer, according to TEAMtalk. Bayern Munich are also said to be 'maintaining a watching brief.'
He returned to action on Sunday, entering as a substitute following recovery from a hamstring problem during Madrid's 2-0 La Liga victory over Valencia.
Nevertheless, he now faces increased competition at right-back, with academy graduate David Jimenez selected ahead of him before his comeback from injury.
Whilst a potential exit for Carvajal could create opportunities for Alexander-Arnold to assume a more significant role next season, Defensa Central report that Madrid's preference remains for Carvajal to stay for one additional year to avoid expenditure on a new right-back.
However, the player is understood to be dissatisfied with a back-up role.
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Despite interim head coach Alvaro Arbeloa opting to leave Carvajal out of the matchday squad for the Valencia fixture, he addressed his decision and stressed the defender's significance within the dressing room.
"I don't need to explain the importance of Dani," Arbeloa said. "He's the one who always has something to say before and after matches.
"It's very important for the players to have a reference like him in the dressing room, and I'm sure he's going to find his best form.
"With the patience and effort we're putting in and his dedication, I'm confident that he's getting closer to regaining his relevance."
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