Trent Alexander-Arnold appears to be closing in on a move to Real Madrid, with reports suggesting the Liverpool right-back is ignoring contract renewal offers from his current club.
The defender, who has been with Liverpool since 2004 and joined the first team in 2016, has become a key player for the Reds over the years but appears to be looking forward to a new challenge.
During his time at Anfield, Alexander-Arnold won numerous trophies, including the Champions League in 2019, the Premier League title in 2020, the FA Cup, and the League Cup twice.
Liverpool have made a strong start to the season under new manager Arne Slott, sitting six points clear at the top of the Premier League table with a game in hand. However, the 26-year-old appears to be leaning towards an exit, with Real Madrid reportedly moving forward in their pursuit of the England international.
According to a report from Spanish newspaper AS, the transfer is about to be completed. The newspaper said: “Alexander-Arnold has one foot in Real Madrid.”
“Trent continues to ignore Liverpool's renewal offers and respond to Real Madrid's calls… Yes, he wants to go to the Bernabéu. He has no doubts.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has agreed to join Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer, according to various reports in Spain 📰 pic.twitter.com/PLZ92dbWRE
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) December 28, 2024
The report also claims that all terms have been agreed, with only the player's signature pending, which could happen as early as January 1.
Real Madrid's urgency to sign Alexander-Arnold is believed to be driven by concerns over Dani Carvajal's fitness and age – he turns 33 next month – and Lucas Vazquez's inconsistent performances at right-back.
While Tottenham's Pedro Boro has been identified as a back-up option, Alexander-Arnold remains Real Madrid's primary target.
Out of respect for Liverpool, the right-back is said to be willing to delay his move until the summer, a decision the Spanish club are said to understand.
Meanwhile, Marca reports that Alexander-Arnold has informed Liverpool of his desire to leave.
The Reds are said to have resigned themselves to the possibility of losing their vice-captain on a free transfer at the end of the season, with selling him during the January transfer window considered highly unlikely.
Sources close to Liverpool confirm that no final agreement has been reached and that the player's only discussions about his future were with his current club.
However, Real Madrid are confident that the appeal of playing under Carlo Ancelotti, alongside his close friend and England team-mate Jude Bellingham, can secure a move for Alexander-Arnold.
