[Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent
Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent](https://www.footballinsider247.com/author/pete-o-rourke-transfer-correspondent)
Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.
The 28-year-old is yet to prove himself with the Spanish giants since an acrimonious departure from Liverpool in 2025.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Alexander-Arnold has no interest in re-joining his boyhood club as it stands.
He is unlikely to ever rule out such a move, but remains part of Jose Mourinho's plans for now and is under contract until 2031.
Trent Alexander-Arnold not set for shock Liverpool return
Alexander-Arnold was viewed as the missing piece of the puzzle for Los Blancos, but has not been able to nail down a regular starting spot under numerous different managers as yet.
He has been left on the bench for their last three games, but wants to keep fighting for game time with Denzel Dumfries and Federico Valverde and so is not looking to explore an Anfield comeback right now.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "There'll always be speculation over his situation, but I don't think Trent has given up on his Real Madrid dream just yet. He's under a long-term contract until 2031.
"I don't think Real are actively pushing him out the door either right now. So yeah, look, I think the player is ready and waiting for his chance and ready to prove himself."
He only joined Brighton in the summer from Spurs for a club-record £46million fee, but may leave in 2027 as top clubs like the Reds and Real monitor his progress.