Trent Alexander-Arnold faced an uneasy return to Liverpool training on Monday, just days after reports emerged that he had agreed to join Real Madrid this summer.

The Liverpool right-back, a key figure in the club’s success under Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot since rising through the academy, is expected to move to the LaLiga giants once his contract expires at season’s end.

While reports this week suggested the deal was already finalized, Mail Sport understands that claim is premature. However, both Alexander-Arnold and Real Madrid remain confident that the free transfer will be completed after the season concludes.

His decision has not been well received by Liverpool fans, with many accusing the local-born defender of betraying the club by leaving for nothing.

Following the international break, Liverpool return to Premier League action on Wednesday in a crucial Merseyside derby against rivals Everton, sitting 12 points clear of Arsenal in the title race.

Despite his impending exit, Slot is expected to utilize Alexander-Arnold in the remaining nine games, as Liverpool push for their second Premier League title.

Trent Alexander-Arnold faced an awkward return to Liverpool training on Monday.

The Reds right-back is reportedly set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer.

He was seen shaking hands with teammates upon arrival at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre.

A video posted on Liverpool’s official social media account showed Alexander-Arnold awkwardly greeting Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Cody Gakpo upon his arrival at the AXA Training Centre in Kirkby.

The right-back, who remained at the training facility during the international break to recover from an ankle injury before returning to first-team sessions on Saturday, appeared hesitant to maintain eye contact with teammates, who themselves looked subdued.

In contrast, Mohamed Salah was all smiles in the video as he welcomed Joe Gomez to the facility and chatted with Szoboszlai.

Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also facing uncertain futures at Liverpool, with both players’ contracts set to expire on June 30, like Alexander-Arnold’s.

Alexander-Arnold, 26, has been with Liverpool since joining the youth setup in 2004.

Since breaking into the first team in 2016, he has played 349 games and won seven trophies with the club.

News of his potential departure has sparked outrage among fans, with widespread social media abuse directed at the England international. One supporter even recorded themselves burning an Alexander-Arnold jersey with his No. 66 on the back.

However, several pundits have defended his decision, insisting he has every right to move to Real Madrid.

Alexander-Arnold avoids eye contact with Alexis Mac Allister after their handshake.

He has been at Liverpool since joining the club’s youth ranks in 2004.

The right-back has won seven trophies, including the UEFA Champions League, with Liverpool.

Chris Sutton addressed the backlash on Mail Sport’s ‘It’s All Kicking Off!’ podcast, saying: ‘Just because Trent wants to leave, it doesn’t mean he doesn’t love the club.

‘He’s been there for over 20 years. In the end, it’s his choice. People criticizing him – do they really understand football?

‘I think it’s just coming from knuckleheads. He’s given everything to Liverpool, won all there is to win, and now he wants a new challenge.’

Former Arsenal and England star Paul Merson also defended Alexander-Arnold on Sky Sports: ‘I don’t see the issue here.

‘He’s come through the ranks, been outstanding, won everything with Liverpool, and he’s leaving on a free.

‘Look at Antony – United spent £80m on him in 2022, and now he’s out on loan. No one says a word.

‘Trent wasn’t some £60m flop. He’s been phenomenal for Liverpool. And… it’s Real Madrid. You know what I mean?’

An angry Liverpool supporter posted a video burning a shirt with Alexander-Arnold’s name.

Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah have also yet to sign new contracts with the club.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid are reportedly interested in making Jurgen Klopp their next manager.

The Spanish giants hope signing Jude Bellingham will help lure the German coach from Anfield to the Bernabeu.

Klopp, 55, extended his contract with Liverpool in April last year, committing to stay until 2026.

However, Liverpool have struggled this season, sitting 10th in the Premier League following a poor run of form, increasing pressure on Klopp.

Despite his achievements in seven years at the club, he could be nearing the end of his tenure.

According to El Nacional, if Klopp leaves Liverpool, Real Madrid would move for the former Borussia Dortmund boss.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is under contract until the end of the 2023/24 season, but an unsuccessful campaign—barring the Club World Cup—could see him depart.

Club president Florentino Perez has long admired Klopp, who has had success at Mainz, Dortmund, and Liverpool.

Reports suggest Real would also attempt to sign both Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe to entice Klopp to the Bernabeu.

Bellingham, 19, valued at over £100 million, has been linked with Europe’s top clubs, including Real Madrid, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea.

After three seasons at Dortmund, where he has recorded 20 goals and 24 assists in 117 games, he is expected to move this summer, having boosted his reputation with a stellar World Cup.

Klopp is known to be an admirer of the young midfielder.

Mbappe, 24, is another player Klopp reportedly wants. The French star’s future at PSG remains uncertain, with the club reportedly agreeing to let him leave last October.

Despite signing a contract extension last summer to stay in Paris until 2025, he could depart at season’s end if Real Madrid are willing to meet his valuation.