Liverpool are on the verge of losing one of their most iconic academy graduates, as reports from Spain claim Trent Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid is now all but confirmed.
According to AS, the 26-year-old has finalised personal terms with the Spanish giants, agreeing on both the length of his contract and his salary.
The report states that his signing is now “99% done,” with only the final formalities left before the transfer becomes official.
Liverpool’s fight to keep Alexander-Arnold looks to have failed
Liverpool have been aware of Real Madrid’s pursuit of Alexander-Arnold for over a year, with multiple reports indicating Los Blancos had made him their top right-back target.
The Spanish club reportedly made an attempt to sign him in January, but Liverpool rejected any potential bargain deal.
Despite the club’s efforts to convince him to sign a contract extension, AS claims that Alexander-Arnold remains firm in his decision to leave.
Unless there is a dramatic late twist, the once-in-a-generation talent is expected to depart Anfield as a free agent this summer.
Real Madrid’s transfer strategy takes shape
Alexander-Arnold is one of three key names on Real Madrid’s summer wishlist, alongside Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi and Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side is undergoing a squad refresh, and bringing in Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer is seen as a major coup.
The Liverpool star is viewed as the perfect long-term successor to Dani Carvajal, offering a unique mix of creativity, vision, and technical ability from right-back.
Given his status as one of the world’s best in his position, Madrid’s ability to secure his services without a transfer fee makes this deal even more appealing.
What next for Liverpool?
Losing Alexander-Arnold will be a devastating blow for Liverpool, not just in terms of quality but also in identity. A Scouser who rose through the club’s academy to become vice-captain, he has been a central figure in Liverpool’s success under Jurgen Klopp.
Now, Liverpool must find a replacement. Recent reports suggest the Reds have already started exploring right-back options, with Flamengo’s Wesley Franca and Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong among those linked.
However, replacing a player of Alexander-Arnold’s calibre will be no easy task. The 26-year-old redefined the right-back role at Liverpool, contributing not just defensively but also as a deep-lying playmaker.
If the deal is finalised as expected, Liverpool fans will be left to reflect on the end of an era – one that will be incredibly difficult to replicate.