Real Madrid close to Trent Alexander-Arnold deal

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 broke into the first team in 2016, has become a key player for the Reds over the years but looks set to look 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, an FA Cup, and two League Cups.

Liverpool have made a strong start to this season under new manager Arne Slot, 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 advancing their pursuit of the England international.

According to a report from AS in Spain, the transfer is about to be completed. The publication said: “Alexander-Arnold has one foot in Real Madrid.

“Trent continues to ignore Liverpool’s offers to renew and answer Madrid’s calls… that yes, he wants to go to the Bernabeu. Of which there is no doubt.”

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 continues to claim that all terms have been agreed, with only the player’s signature pending, which could happen as early as January 1st.

Real Madrid’s urgency to sign Alexander-Arnold is believed to be driven by concerns over the health and age of Dani Carvajal – he turns 33 next month – and the inconsistent performances of Lucas Vazquez at right back.

While Tottenham’s Pedro Porro has been identified as a reserve option, Alexander-Arnold remains Real’s primary target.

Out of respect for Liverpool, the right-back is reportedly willing to delay his move until the summer, a decision the Spanish club are said to understand.

Meanwhile, Marca reported that Alexander-Arnold has informed Liverpool of his desire to leave.

The Reds are reportedly resigned to the possibility of losing their vice-captain on a free transfer at the end of the season, as his sale during the January transfer window is considered highly unlikely.

Sources close to Liverpool claim that no deal has been finalized and that the player’s only discussions about his future have been with his current club.

However, Real Madrid are confident that the lure of playing under Carlo Ancelotti, along with close friend and England team-mate Jude Bellingham, can secure Alexander-Arnold’s move.