Liverpool’s worst fears regarding Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future appear to be coming true, with the vice-captain seemingly on the verge of joining Real Madrid.
Despite the club’s desperate attempts to keep him at Anfield, reports suggest the 26-year-old has already agreed personal terms with the Spanish giants, leaving Reds fans reeling at the prospect of losing one of their most influential players for free.
A move that feels inevitable
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the transfer to Madrid is “very much on,” while talkSPORT’s Alex Crook has stated that the England international has finalised his agreement with Los Blancos.
To make matters worse, there is speculation that Real Madrid could push for an early release, allowing him to join their squad in time for the Club World Cup in June.
Liverpool reportedly did everything they could to convince Alexander-Arnold to stay.
According to TBR Football, the club was prepared to make him the highest-paid English player in Premier League history – surpassing Jack Grealish’s £300,000 per week salary at Manchester City. Despite this unprecedented offer, Trent seems to have had his heart set on Madrid for some time.
Did Liverpool act too late?
One of the biggest frustrations for Liverpool supporters is the timing of the club’s contract offer.
The Anfield hierarchy only put their record-breaking deal on the table after learning that Alexander-Arnold was in advanced talks with Madrid. Given his importance to the team, many are questioning why the club didn’t act sooner.
Even more puzzling is the financial side of the move.
Reports from The Independent claim that the right-back will earn just £200,000 per week in Madrid – significantly less than what Liverpool offered. This suggests that his decision was never about money but about the opportunity to wear the famous white shirt of Los Blancos.
What happens next?
With Alexander-Arnold’s departure now appearing inevitable, Liverpool must turn their attention to finding a suitable replacement.
Jeremie Frimpong has been linked as a potential successor, while the club’s transfer strategy may shift depending on how Arne Slot envisions his defensive setup.
Regardless of who comes in, there is no denying that Liverpool are losing a generational talent, a homegrown star who has defined their modern era.
The challenge now is ensuring that his departure doesn’t leave a long-term void in the squad.