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Liverpool manager Arne Slot avoided talking about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s possible transfer to Real Madrid. The defender is expected to join the Spanish club when his contract ends this summer.
WHAT HAPPENED?
When asked about the move, Slot gave little away. “If there is any news, I wouldn’t say you are the first to know,” he said. Slot added: “But as long as there is no news from us, this is not the place to talk about his situation.” Reports say the 26-year-old defender might leave Anfield this June.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Alexander-Arnold leaving would be a big loss for Liverpool. He came up through the academy to become a key player. He helped Liverpool win the Premier League title this year with four games left, after they beat Tottenham 5-1. Liverpool recently renewed contracts for Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, but Alexander-Arnold seems unlikely to stay. Reports suggest he will join Real Madrid for free.
Transfer experts say Real Madrid are “very optimistic” about getting the England international. They need to complete steps like signing a contract and telling Liverpool. Real Madrid might even pay Liverpool a small fee to let Alexander-Arnold join early so he can play in the Club World Cup.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL?
With the Premier League title won, Liverpool can focus on the rest of the season and life without their star right-back. Alexander-Arnold has won seven trophies with the club, including the Champions League and perhaps a second Premier League title. Filling his place will be tough. Liverpool are 12 points ahead at the top with four games left. It has been a great first year for Slot as manager after taking over from Jürgen Klopp last summer.
If Alexander-Arnold moves to Madrid, he’ll follow Steve McManaman, who did the same in 1999. McManaman advises him to learn Spanish to succeed at the Bernabéu. Liverpool need to decide if they want to buy a replacement or promote from within as they get ready for the 2025-26 season.
