Real Madrid’s January transfer plans have reportedly been confirmed as the Spanish giants close in on Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The England international has been instrumental in the Reds’ incredible start to the campaign under Arne Slot, with his team top of England and Europe.
However, constant speculation has centered on the future of three of their most important players with deals set to expire, with Alexander-Arnold among them.
The full-back has since been closely linked with a possible move to Madrid next season, and Mail Sport understands that the Spanish giants are increasingly convinced of signing Alexander-Arnold.
Now, a report from brand have suggested that the England international is their only target ahead of the January window.
The outlet claims that, due to the injury of starting full-back Dani Carvajal, Alexander-Arnold has become Madrid’s priority.
Real Madrid have reportedly made Trent Alexander-Arnold their priority heading into January
The people of Madrid are convinced that Alexander-Arnold wants a new challenge with Carlo Ancelotti
Although the Liverpool star will most likely join on a free transfer in the summer, there is a chance he could force a move during the January window.
Alexander-Arnold is the first choice, with Tottenham’s Pedro Porro believed to be a substitute, and the good relationship between the clubs dictated that Los Blancos informed Liverpool in time and there were no problems.
The Reds were initially backed to convince the fan favorite to stay at Anfield but are believed to be losing the race at the hands of the 15-time Champions League winners.
There has been persistent speculation over Alexander-Arnold’s future for much of the season and the Liverpool right-back has made it clear that he will not add to the rumors by giving a running commentary on the situation.
But 15-time European champions Madrid have been waiting in the wings since he entered the final 12 months of his contract and Mail Sport understands they are starting to plan their life with the England international.
Sources close to Liverpool insist that no agreement has been reached. And it is understood that the player’s only contacts about his future to date have been with Liverpool. Those in the Spanish capital are convinced that Alexander-Arnold wants a new challenge with Carlo Ancelotti.
It has been a high-pressure situation for Liverpool, who are potentially losing an £80m asset for nothing.
The opportunity to play alongside close friend and England teammate Jude Bellingham is also said to serve as incentive for Alexander-Arnold to make the move.
There is a possibility that Madrid will push to seal a move for Alexander-Arnold in January
Alexander-Arnold has been consistently linked with a move to Ancelotti’s side this season, and is close to Jude Bellingham.
The Liverpool-born star joined the club at the age of six and has played 332 times for the first team, winning every major honor along the way, including the Champions League and Premier League.
Last weekend, Jamie Carragher claimed that Alexander-Arnold’s legacy at Anfield could be damaged if he decides to leave the club on a free transfer.
‘If he stays at the club. “He will be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever play for the football club, and not far behind Steven Gerrard,” Carragher said.
‘If you don’t do it, you won’t be remembered that way. Now, if you don’t mind that, that’s fine, but I’m just telling you what the Liverpool fans (think).”
He continued: “If I were advising Trent, I would say it’s not just about leaving. I think people understand it with Real Madrid.
‘A lot of this is the free transfer. That’s a lot of anything. It’s that fear that you won’t leave us, (but) “Where is our money to replace you?”
You may not agree with that, but it’s simply a fact. I would say: “Sign a contract. Have a decent release clause, that’s not ridiculous. And if Real Madrid want to buy you in 12 months…”‘
