Real Madrid are reportedly keen to secure the signing of Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold in the upcoming transfer window.
Spanish sources suggest that Los Blancos are becoming increasingly confident they can complete a deal for the England international in January.
However, while a winter transfer appears unlikely, Alexander-Arnold could sign a pre-agreement with Madrid to join as a free agent at the start of next season, once his contract at Liverpool expires.
A potential move to the Spanish capital will not be an easy decision for the 26-year-old, who has shown immense loyalty to his boyhood club.
Alexander-Arnold is determined to help Liverpool secure another Premier League title, with the Reds currently in a strong position to lift their first league trophy since 2020.
Any speculation about his future could disrupt the momentum of Arne Slot’s side, especially with reports indicating that Slot is tight-lipped about his own contract renewal.
“If we would [have made any breakthroughs] then it’s probably not the moment to tell you now,” the Reds head coach said.
“In general, I don’t talk about contract situations here. It would be a surprise if I was the one to announce that one of them has extended.
“Keep asking, that’s your job, but you’re probably not going to get an answer from me.
“It’s clear that from 1 January, maybe for you guys (media), things change a lot but they are in constant talks with the club and let’s wait and see what happens.
“As long as they keep performing like this, the head coach is happy.”
Having made over 300 appearances for Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold has enjoyed an illustrious career at Anfield, winning nearly every major trophy, including the Premier League in 2020, the Champions League, the Club World Cup, the FA Cup, and the League Cup.
With his future uncertain, along with that of teammates Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, the next few months will be pivotal for the club.
Liverpool, under Slot’s guidance, have become a formidable force in European football, but losing key players like Alexander-Arnold would significantly weaken both their attack and defence, while strengthening their biggest European rivals in Madrid.
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