Liverpool have turned down an approach from Real Madrid for star full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of the January transfer window.
The 26-year-old, whose contract is set to expire next summer, has been the subject of ongoing speculation.
Over the weekend, it was reported that the Spanish champions are confident they can persuade Alexander-Arnold to move to the Santiago Bernabéu.
With veteran right-back Dani Carvajal sidelined due to injury, Carlo Ancelotti’s side have accelerated their interest by making a direct club-to-club inquiry about securing Alexander-Arnold’s services this winter.
However, the approach stopped short of a formal offer or monetary bid.
Liverpool, currently leading the Premier League, remain committed to retaining Alexander-Arnold and have been in active discussions with the player and his representatives about extending his contract.
The Reds are also working to secure new deals for key players Mohamed Salah and captain Virgil van Dijk.
Despite the swirling rumours, Alexander-Arnold has yet to indicate any desire to leave Anfield.
His immediate focus remains on helping Liverpool in their title push.
On Monday, Gary Lineker added fuel to the speculation by suggesting that Alexander-Arnold would be a “great fit” for Real Madrid, calling a move to the Bernabéu “logical.”
The debate over the defender’s future overshadowed Liverpool’s recent impressive 5-0 win at West Ham, which further cemented their title credentials.
“It seems to make a lot of sense to me,” said Lineker.
“Free transfer is how Real Madrid have done things recently.
“He [Trent] is really close to Jude Bellingham and would fit in there beautifully.
“He would be a massive success. They wouldn’t focus on his defending critically as we do here – overly in my opinion. It’s a great fit and would be a huge loss for Liverpool, but they have a youngster coming through [Conor Bradley] who has done really well.
“I think it is highly likely that will happen, although I have no inside information whatsoever.”
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