One of the biggest transfer stories in recent football history is nearing its conclusion, with Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold reportedly set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer. The 26-year-old right-back, who has spent his entire professional career at Liverpool, is expected to sign a five-year deal with the Spanish giants, marking the end of an era for the homegrown talent at Anfield.
Alexander-Arnold, who rose through the Liverpool academy from the age of eight, has become one of the finest right-backs in the world. Over his time at Liverpool, he has won the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and numerous domestic titles. However, with his contract expiring at the end of June and no agreement for an extension in place, Real Madrid has seized the opportunity to secure his signature.
According to reports from Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri, the deal is all but confirmed. Alexander-Arnold's agents have reached an agreement on personal terms with Real Madrid, and the move is set to be finalised. The England international is poised to receive a substantial pay rise, with his annual salary expected to rise to €15 million (£12.5 million), significantly more than his current wages at Liverpool. In addition to the lucrative contract, he will also receive a signing bonus that is described as comparable to a "reasonable transfer fee."
This move to Madrid has been in the works for over a year, with Los Blancos keen to secure the right-back on a free transfer. Despite Liverpool's efforts to convince Alexander-Arnold to stay, it appears that the player’s future lies in Madrid, where he will join a team that has dominated European football in recent years.
The departure of Alexander-Arnold will undoubtedly leave a significant gap in Liverpool’s defence, especially given his contributions to the club’s recent successes. Manager Arne Slot will now have to look for a replacement, with reports suggesting that Liverpool is eyeing Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong as a potential addition. However, Liverpool’s primary focus will be to secure a new striker and a centre-back before addressing the right-back position.
Although the news of Alexander-Arnold's departure is disappointing for Liverpool fans, the club wants to move forward and rebuild. Conor Bradley, an academy graduate, is expected to fill the right-back position, but Liverpool is likely to look for additional reinforcements in the market to remain a competitive team.
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