-Credit:Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Trent Alexander-Arnold appears to be edging closer to signing for Real Madrid and leaving boyhood club Liverpool for nothing – and the actions of Anfield bosses may be to blame.
The right-back is free to sign a pre-contract agreement with Los Blancos tomorrow morning, though the Spanish giant has already enquired about signing him now instead. Liverpool quickly rebuffed that enquiry and will not sell him in January at any price due to the desire to win the Premier League – but the writing may be on the wall for the club’s vice-captain.
According to the Athletic, Alexander-Arnold is only considering leaving the club due to feeling put out about the lateness of the club’s contract offer. Alexander-Arnold most recently signed a new contract back in 2021, and the club has known since then he would become a free agent – though it seems it has waited too late to act.
READ MORE: Liverpool offers stern response as Real Madrid makes opening Trent Alexander-Arnold approach
READ MORE: Liverpool transfer news LIVE: Trent Alexander-Arnold rejection, Zubimendi ‘seduced’, Marmoush blow
And the report claims the right-back is only considering leaving because he felt the club waited too long – but that he respects Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes.
Alexander-Arnold has stayed quiet about his contract negotiations with Liverpool and has insisted he’ll do his talking on the pitch. With the Reds currently at the top of the Premier League table and flying in Europe, the focus is on winning trophies in Slot’s first season.
Madrid’s desire to act in January comes as Carlo Ancelotti struggles with his defensive options – having lost Dani Carvajal to a long-term injury. The same report claims Madrid is increasingly confident of signing Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer once his contract expires – and it isn’t out of the question that he signs a pre-contract agreement in January.
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is respected by Trent Alexander-Arnold -Credit:Getty Images
He has reportedly been offered a lucrative contract at the Bernabeau, spanning over at least four years with a “hefty” signing-on fee included.
Liverpool, meanwhile, has offered a contract to Alexander-Arnold and remains determined to keep the homegrown hero at Anfield well into his career. The player himself is in no rush and is believed to be considering signing a new deal to stay at Anfield – though that now seems like the more unlikely option.