Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer. The Spanish giants see him as the ideal successor for their vice-captain Dani Carvajal.
Despite having a bid turned down by Liverpool in the January transfer window, Madrid has reportedly managed to secure Alexander-Arnold’s services for next season.
Liverpool had hoped to persuade the England international to stay, but it seems he has his heart set on a move to Spain. Sky Sports France reports that after lengthy negotiations, he has agreed personal terms with Madrid.
The 26-year-old is expected to sign a lucrative five-year contract worth approximately £12.5million ($16M) per year. He will also receive a signing bonus equivalent to a reasonable transfer fee.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is said to be eyeing Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong as a potential replacement for Alexander-Arnold. Reports suggest that Slot has been in direct contact with Frimpong’s representatives and discussions are ongoing.
Leverkusen reportedly values Frimpong at around £42m ($54M) and Liverpool is said to be preparing an initial offer in this range. It’s also noted that the player is keen on a move to Anfield.
Alexander-Arnold is on the mend from an ankle injury sustained during Liverpool’s unfortunate exit from the Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain. The setback saw him miss out on a call-up for Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad, but there’s optimism he’ll return before the season concludes.
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Prior to Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final loss to Newcastle, Slot commented: “Trent is not available. He will not be at the final but he is still to be assessed for how it is going to take. We do expect him back before the end of the season.”
With Liverpool leading the Premier League by 12 points and only nine matches left, Alexander-Arnold is eager to contribute to another title win. Speaking to CNN Sports, he said: “Every game is almost like a final now,” highlighting the pressure as rivals hit their stride.
“Because a certain other team look like they’re clicking into gear, which means its going to go down to the wire as usual, which means every game is a must win, as simple as that.
“That’s the way you want it. You want to get pushed and you want to push yourself as far and as hard as you can and test yourself to the limits. Every single game is a must win. Even a draw feels like a loss, no matter the context of it.”
