Trent Alexander-Arnold's time at Real Madrid has been marked by inconsistency, and former Manchester United defender Wes Brown believes a return to the Premier League could be on the cards
Ben Pawlowski
11:15, 25 Jun 2026Updated 11:25, 25 Jun 2026
Trent Alexander-Arnold endured a tough first season at Real Madrid
Trent Alexander-Arnold endured a tough first season at Real Madrid(Image: Getty Images)
Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown has hinted that a surprising transfer bringing Trent Alexander-Arnold to Old Trafford shouldn't be ruled out.
He's also suggested the 27-year-old isn't settling in at Real Madrid. The former Liverpool right-back only ended his 20-year association with his boyhood club last summer, making the switch to Madrid after running down his contract. The decision sparked outrage among certain Liverpool supporters.
He arrived in Spain's capital city with high expectations, having won all available major trophies during an illustrious period with the Reds. Yet Alexander-Arnold is already facing scrutiny after an uneven beginning to his Spanish adventure.
The England defender featured in only 14 league fixtures last season, with his limited playing time contributing to his omission from Thomas Tuchel's selection for the current World Cup in North America.
The exit of long-standing skipper Dani Carvajal earlier this summer seemed to provide Alexander-Arnold with an opportunity to establish himself as the undisputed starting right-back.
Nevertheless, the return of iconic boss Jose Mourinho and the expected arrival of Inter Milan wing-back Denzel Dumfries threaten to muddy the waters, potentially dropping him down the hierarchy as this difficult period persists.
Wes Brown believes Manchester United could sign Alexander-Arnold
Wes Brown believes Manchester United could sign Alexander-Arnold(Image: Getty Images)
A potential switch to the Premier League with United would be among the most controversial transfers in recent English soccer history, considering the intense rivalry between the two sides.
The last player to move directly between Liverpool and United was Phil Chisnall, who transferred from Old Trafford to Anfield in 1964, while Michael Owen remains the most recent soccer player to have represented both clubs.
Nevertheless, Brown reckons United would be foolish not to consider a possible transfer if the opportunity presents itself, as he suggests the defender is evidently struggling to settle in.
"Manchester United would be a very good move for Trent Alexander-Arnold," Brown told Compare.bet, who offer the latest Betting Sites. "What a player. He would really help how Michael Carrick wants to attack teams.
"I think it is clear he is not really enjoying himself at Real Madrid. He would be a great player to have, and I think anyone in the Premier League would want to sign him. Who wouldn't have Trent in their team?"
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Brown, who clocked up 362 matches for United, recognized such a deal would be unlikely – but pointed to some of soccer's most infamous transfers as evidence that nothing is completely impossible.
"I'm not sure he would be keen on United – Liverpool fans definitely wouldn't be happy!" Brown said.
"But it's not out of the question. Luis Figo left Barcelona for Real Madrid. Michael Owen played for United. If he doesn't see his future at Real Madrid, we'll have to wait and see."