David Ornstein shares ‘unusual’ Trent Alexander-Arnold update after new talks
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s situation at Liverpool is “unusual” where there is still no breakthrough in talks over his future and suitors will look to tempt him away, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein.
The journalist reported on 3 December that despite the England international showing “firm loyalty” to his boyhood club, and the Reds “working hard” to keep him, there has been no advance towards a new deal.
A player of his stature and age is so rarely allowed to get towards the end of their deal that the matter is seen as something of uncharted territory for the club, with the clock ticking before next month when he can sign a pre-contract on an exit.
It’s understood that the Merseyside club are determined to keep such a “key figure,” but the uncertainty surrounding the situation has “fuelled interest from elsewhere,” with Real Madrid monitoring developments closely.
Football Insider revealed that it’s unlikely that the Reds will be busy this January. They will instead focus on securing new deals for Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk.
This comes amid reports that Liverpool have made a contract extension offer to captain van Dijk. Like Alexander-Arnold, he is also out of contract in 2025.
Liverpool face realistic possibility of losing Trent Alexander-Arnold
Football Insider opinion
Sources told Football Insider on 29 November that the 26-year-old’s possible move from Liverpool to Real Madrid is now “50/50”.
From 1 January, the Premier League star will be free to negotiate terms on a free transfer for the end of the season. If no agreement is reached by then, Los Blancos are likely to emerge as his most probable destination.
While the right-back has registered just one assist this season, his role has evolved under Arne Slot’s new system. He delivered an impressive defensive display against Manchester City. He made four tackles, two key passes, and won five ground duels.
Carlo Ancelotti, however, is seemingly eager to make him Real Madrid’s newest ‘Galactico’ signing, pairing him with fellow national teammate Jude Bellingham next season.
The 21-year-old has subtly hinted at his desire to see Alexander-Arnold join him. Following Liverpool’s win against the Sky Blues, Bellingham liked his Instagram post, fuelling speculation further.
It would be a massive setback for Liverpool if they lost any of their three key players. The club will face significant criticism if delays in securing new contracts result in any of them leaving on a free transfer.
In other news, Liverpool are locked in a tight race for Jamie Gittens as transfer plans emerge.
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