Paul Merson can't understand Liverpool fan anger towards Trent Alexander-Arnold as he negotiates a move to Real Madrid
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Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson.
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson(Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Paul Merson believes Liverpool supporters should "be happy" for Trent Alexander-Arnold if the right-back signs for Real Madrid on a free transfer. The Reds' vice-captain is considering an offer from the Spanish giants with his contract up in the summer.
Having kept his silence this season while so far refusing to sign a new deal with his boyhood club, Alexander-Arnold has been on the receiving end of anger from sections of the Liverpool fanbase.
But former Arsenal forward Merson believes Reds supporters should not direct their ire at Alexander-Arnold and even compared the right-back's situation to that of Manchester United forward Antony, who is currently on loan at Real Betis after enduring a difficult spell at Old Trafford following an £80m switch from Ajax.
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Asked whether Liverpool fans should be disgruntled the club would receive no transfer fee for Alexander-Arnold, Merson told Sky Sports: "I don't know why, he's come through the ranks there. I don't know what the problem is.
"He's come through, been unbelievable, he's won everything there and he's going to go on a free. Look at Antony, Man Utd bought him for £80m and he's out on loan. Nobody says a dickie bird.
"This lad has been absolutely outstanding for Liverpool. He's not come in as a £60m flop. He's come through the ranks, been phenomenal. It's Real Madrid, he's going to win the Premier League with Liverpool again and I don't see a problem with it."
Merson added: "I don't know anyone in the world of football who has ever turned Real Madrid down. Fair play to the lad, good luck to him, Liverpool fans should be happy for him. He's give everything for the club and I think he deserves that move."