Former Liverpool star Jarell Quansah is being monitored by Real Madrid, which could hand Trent Alexander-Arnold a further setback after a rollercoaster start to life in Spain
Trent Alexander-Arnold could face a new battle at Real Madrid
Trent Alexander-Arnold could face a new battle at Real Madrid(Image: Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Real Madrid star Trent Alexander-Arnold has already been dropped by head coach Jose Mourinho, but the former Liverpool defender could have his position threatened further by one of his old teammates.
Alexander-Arnold has found life difficult since leaving Liverpool and signing for Madrid, and he's since lost his right-back spot to Denzel Dumfries, who was signed this summer. It's led to uncertainties over his future in Spain, though his international career has been given a lifeline.
The defender was finally called up by England head coach Thomas Tuchel, and starred in a recent 2-0 win over Czechia, assisting Anthony Gordon. However, another member of the England squad has been linked with a move to Madrid.
According to Sport BILD, Madrid has expressed great interest in signing former Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah, who now plays in Germany for Bayer Leverkusen. Quansah is under contract until 2030, having joined for $40 million.
England star Jude Bellingham, who also plays for Madrid alongside Alexander-Arnold, is said to have formed a close relationship with Quansah during national team duties. Despite signing three defenders this summer, Madrid is still looking to the future.
Quansah has established himself as a key player for Leverkusen and can play both center-back and right-back. Madrid is interested in signing the defender, but it could hand Alexander-Arnold another player to compete with.
Jarel Quansah is fast becoming one of the most desired young defenders
Jarell Quansah is fast becoming one of the most desired young defenders(Image: Getty Images)
However, a pursuit from Madrid could force Liverpool to make an immediate transfer decision. Although Liverpool sold Quansah to Leverkusen, they included a $78 million buyback option that can be exercised until June 15, 2027.
The decision to let Quansah leave now appears to have been a mistake by Liverpool, with the club having dealt with defensive frailties since his departure. While Jeremy Jacquet has fit in alongside Virgil van Dijk in the center of defense, the right-back position has been a constant concern.
Conor Bradley has been injured since last season, and Jeremie Frimpong has struggled since joining Liverpool. Star midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has been forced to fill in on occasion.
Liverpool has failed to replace Alexander-Arnold since his departure
Liverpool has failed to replace Alexander-Arnold since his departure(Image: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
Should Liverpool decide to pay a hefty fee and bring back their former star, it could resolve defensive concerns. Quansah remains an in-demand player, though, with Leverkusen turning down approaches this summer.
Chelsea has already inquired about Quansah, with former Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso now in charge. Arsenal made an official $73 million offer to sign Quansah, but the bid was rejected.
Should Leverkusen entertain any offer in the future, Liverpool would have the right to match it, provided the offer is made before June 15, 2027. It could be another battle between Liverpool and Madrid, after a tense few years.
Alexander-Arnold and Ibrahima Konate both snubbed contract extensions at Liverpool to leave on a free transfer and sign for Madrid. While Konate has received praise, Alexander-Arnold has yet to establish himself as a consistent presence.