Real Madrid is reportedly eyeing Liverpool’s star right-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, as they seek a long-term replacement for Euro 2024-winner Dani Carvajal. Carvajal, who turns 33 in January and whose contract expires next summer, has prompted Carlo Ancelotti to look for a successor. Alexander-Arnold, whose contract with Liverpool runs until 2025, has caught the attention of Los Blancos, with Bild’s Christian Falk (via The Mirror) reporting “concrete” interest and discussions already taking place.
Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool Dream:
Despite Real Madrid’s interest, Alexander-Arnold has a deep-rooted connection with Liverpool and a lifelong ambition to achieve certain milestones at Anfield. In a 2018 interview with The Times, he expressed his unwavering commitment to Liverpool, stating, “There is nowhere else I’d rather be than Liverpool. Somewhere I want to stay for the rest of my career is Liverpool. It’s what I’ve always dreamed of. Liverpool are special. It’s completely down to the fans. Whether we are winning or losing we always have their love.”
Aspiring Captain:
Alexander-Arnold is moving closer to his dream of becoming Liverpool’s captain. Promoted to vice-captain under Virgil van Dijk last season, he has publicly expressed his desire to one day wear the captain’s armband. In 2018, he shared, “I want to become captain one day. That’s definitely a dream of mine. I hope with dedication, the right advice and the hard work that still needs to be put in that one day I might achieve that dream of becoming captain, something that me and my family will be very proud of if it comes.”
Speculation and Shifting Priorities:
Rumors suggest that Alexander-Arnold may be considering a move to Real Madrid, partly influenced by his close friend Jude Bellingham’s success at the Bernabeu and the potential addition of Kylian Mbappe. However, leaving Liverpool would mean giving up on his dream of captaining his hometown club, a goal he reiterated in August 2023 after being named Van Dijk’s deputy.
Liverpool’s Dilemma:
New Liverpool manager Arne Slot will undoubtedly want to retain such a versatile and valuable player. However, the prospect of losing Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer in 2025 could force Liverpool into making a tough decision. Real Madrid’s allure and the potential shift in Alexander-Arnold’s priorities add a complex layer to Liverpool’s efforts to keep their star right-back.