Trent Alexander-Arnold has reportedly informed Liverpool that he will not sign a new contract and plans to join Real Madrid next summer.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, the 26-year-old right-back has expressed his desire to take on a new challenge, setting his sights on a move to the Spanish capital once his current deal expires.
Alexander-Arnold’s contract is set to enter its final six months, making his future a major topic of discussion.
Having come through the ranks at Anfield, the England international has enjoyed immense success with the Reds, winning almost every major trophy available.
Despite his deep connection to the club, he appears ready to close this chapter and pursue a new adventure with Los Blancos.
Real Madrid, the reigning Champions League holders, are reportedly eager to negotiate terms when the January transfer window opens.
However, Liverpool would prefer to retain Alexander-Arnold until the summer, even if it means losing him on a free transfer, as his presence is seen as crucial to their ambitions of winning silverware this season.
The move is thought to be influenced by Alexander-Arnold’s desire to play alongside close friend and England teammate Jude Bellingham, who joined Real Madrid earlier this year.
The pair share a strong bond, and the opportunity to link up at the Santiago Bernabéu adds further appeal to the switch.
Alexander-Arnold has previously expressed his ambition to win the Ballon d’Or, a feat no right-back has ever achieved.
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher once admitted that such an accolade would be difficult to attain at Anfield but suggested that playing for a club like Real Madrid might increase his chances.
However, Carragher recently cautioned the defender about the risks associated with such a high-profile move.
Alexander-Arnold is not the only Liverpool star facing an uncertain future, as Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also nearing the end of their contracts.
With the January window fast approaching, Liverpool’s hierarchy faces critical decisions regarding the club’s direction and its key players.
He said: “If he stays at the club. He’ll be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever play for the football club, and not far behind Steven Gerrard. If he doesn’t, he won’t be remembered like that.
“Now, if he doesn’t care about that, that’s fine, but I’m only telling you what Liverpool supporters [think].
He added: “If I was advising Trent, I would say, it’s not just leaving.
“I think people understand it with Real Madrid.
“A lot of it is the free transfer.
“That’s a lot of anything. It’s that fear of not you leaving us, [but]
“Where’s our money to replace you?”
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