Liverpool’s hopes of keeping Trent Alexander-Arnold appear to be all but over, with reports confirming that the right-back has agreed to join Real Madrid once his contract at Anfield expires.
However, despite the emotional loss of their academy graduate, Liverpool may still receive a transfer fee from Los Blancos to bring the move forward.
Speculation over Alexander-Arnold’s future has dominated the season, with fellow stars Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah also yet to commit to new contracts.
Now, the 26-year-old appears set to trade Merseyside for Madrid, embarking on a new challenge in La Liga.
Alexander-Arnold’s decision came earlier than expected
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Alexander-Arnold’s decision to leave Liverpool was made well before the current campaign even began. In fact, it’s believed that the right-back had already set his sights on a move to Spain in late 2023 – long before Jurgen Klopp announced his own departure from Anfield.
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This suggests that Alexander-Arnold’s choice to leave wasn’t influenced by Liverpool’s managerial change but was instead a long-term ambition to test himself at Real Madrid.
His emotional reaction at the end of the 2023/24 season – where he was seen in tears – now appears to have been a farewell moment, a quiet acknowledgment that his time with the Reds was coming to an end.
Could Liverpool still receive a fee?
Despite his contract running down, Liverpool could still financially benefit from Alexander-Arnold’s exit. Reports suggest that Real Madrid are eager to bring him in before his deal officially expires on June 30, ensuring he is available for their Club World Cup campaign, which kicks off on June 14.
Los Blancos are reportedly willing to offer Liverpool a £5 million transfer fee to push the deal forward to June 1.
With the Reds expected to have wrapped up their season before the end of May, it remains to be seen whether they will accept the proposal or let their vice-captain walk for free when his contract officially ends.
A painful departure
Losing Alexander-Arnold is a significant blow for Liverpool, given his influence and deep connection to the club.
However, if Marca’s timeline is accurate, his departure has been in the making for some time.
Now, the Reds must turn their attention to life after their vice-captain, with young talent Conor Bradley widely tipped to step up in his absence.