Real Madrid are intensifying their pursuit of Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, with reports suggesting that the Spanish giants are working on a free transfer deal for the England international. Alexander-Arnold, whose contract at Anfield is set to expire at the end of the season, has yet to agree to new terms with Liverpool, making him a prime target for Los Blancos.
Real Madrid’s Interest in Alexander-Arnold
According to The Athletic, Real Madrid are actively working to secure Alexander-Arnold on a pre-contract agreement. If a deal is struck, Liverpool must be informed, as per FIFA regulations regarding players entering the final six months of their contract. Madrid reportedly made a formal approach for Alexander-Arnold in January, but Liverpool rejected the offer at the time, still hoping to tie him down to a long-term contract.
However, with no extension agreed yet, Real Madrid see an opportunity to land one of the best right-backs in world football without paying a transfer fee. The Spanish club has a history of securing elite talents on free transfers, with notable examples including David Alaba from Bayern Munich and Antonio Rüdiger from Chelsea.
Alexander-Arnold’s Impact at Liverpool
Since making his first-team breakthrough from Liverpool’s academy in 2016, Alexander-Arnold has established himself as one of the best right-backs in modern football. His ability to influence games through his precise passing, vision, and attacking contributions has redefined the full-back position.
Over the years, Alexander-Arnold has made 349 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 22 goals and providing 87 assists. His performances have been instrumental in Liverpool’s success under former coach Jurgen Klopp, helping the club secure several major trophies, including:
- Premier League title (2019/20) – Liverpool’s first league triumph in 30 years, where Alexander-Arnold won the PFA Young Player of the Year award.
- Champions League (2018/19) – Played a key role in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Tottenham in the final.
- FA Cup (2021/22) – Helped Liverpool defeat Chelsea in a penalty shootout.
- Two League Cups (2019/20, 2021/22, 2023/24) – Contributed to Liverpool’s domestic cup success.
Despite playing as a right-back, Arnold has consistently ranked among Liverpool’s top assist providers, showcasing his elite playmaking ability. His unique skill set makes him a perfect fit for Real Madrid’s attack-minded approach, and he could follow in the footsteps of legendary full-backs like Roberto Carlos, Marcelo, and Dani Carvajal at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Will Liverpool Lose Their Vice-Captain?
At 26 years old, Alexander-Arnold is entering his prime years, making his contract situation a major concern for Liverpool. Alongside Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, he is one of three key Liverpool players whose contracts expire this summer.
With new manager, Arne Slot in charge, uncertainty surrounds the club’s ability to retain their biggest stars, including Alexander-Arnold.
Despite his strong ties to Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold has not yet committed to a contract renewal, fueling speculation that he could leave on a free transfer. If he departs, it would mark the end of an era, as he has been a symbol of the club’s modern success and philosophy.
Why Real Madrid Want Alexander-Arnold
Real Madrid’s pursuit of Alexander-Arnold makes sense given their long-term plans. Dani Carvajal, their current first-choice right-back, is 32 years old and approaching the final years of his career. While the club has experimented with other options like Lucas Vázquez and Eduardo Camavinga, neither offers the natural attacking and defensive qualities that Alexander-Arnold possesses.
By signing Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid would strengthen their squad without paying a massive transfer fee. Additionally, the prospect of playing alongside world-class talents like Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., and Rodrygo in an ambitious project could be appealing to him.
Tactically, Alexander-Arnold’s passing range and ability to dictate play from deep would suit Real Madrid’s possession-based system. He could either continue as a right-back or transition into a more hybrid midfield role, similar to what Liverpool have experimented with in recent seasons.
What’s Next for Alexander-Arnold?
As things stand, Liverpool must act quickly if they want to keep Alexander-Arnold. If no contract extension is agreed upon soon, he will be free to negotiate with foreign clubs—including Real Madrid—for a pre-contract agreement.
For Liverpool fans, the thought of losing Alexander-Arnold for free is worrying, especially considering his influence on the team and his status as a homegrown star. However, if Real Madrid manage to convince him, it would be a massive coup for the Spanish giants.
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With time running out, the ball is now in Liverpool’s court. Will they secure a new deal for Alexander-Arnold, or will he swap Anfield for the Santiago Bernabéu this summer?
