Liverpool have agreed to let Trent Alexander-Arnold join Real Madrid ahead of schedule, with the Spanish giants paying £10 million for the early transfer, as per reports via The Times’ Paul Joyce.
The move allows the 26-year-old to feature in next month’s Club World Cup, but also gives the Reds a decent return before his contract runs out at the end of June.
It’s the end of an era for the Scouser, who has spent two decades at his boyhood club. But with a new chapter waiting in Madrid, Liverpool acted wisely to close a deal that benefits both sides.
While fans may still be catching their breath, the club was clear — Trent wouldn’t leave for nothing, not even if Madrid waved a white flag and a Galactico grin.
Real had originally offered a much lower fee, but Liverpool stood firm. The final figure includes a one-off payment, full wages for June, and some extra savings that make up the total value.
It’s not a fortune, but in football, timing can be just as valuable as talent.
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Arne Slot already has Trent Alexander-Arnold replacement lined up
With Alexander-Arnold packing for sunnier passes, Liverpool have already lined up Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen (reportedly to be announced today).
The Dutchman isn’t a direct replacement, but he offers speed and flexibility — just what new boss Arne Slot wants for his system. Conor Bradley, who impressed late last season, is also expected to have a big role.
Still, letting go of a player who lifted every major trophy with the club won’t be easy. From wonder goals to whipping crosses, Trent’s boots leave a hard act to follow.
He’ll officially become a Real Madrid player when the transfer window opens on Sunday. But for many at Anfield, his final wave last week already felt like the end.
In his own words, the defender said he needed “a new challenge.” Now that challenge comes in the shape of the white jersey—and a chance to conquer the world, quite literally.
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