Real Madrid have entered into talks with Liverpool regarding the possibility of releasing Trent Alexander-Arnold from his contract ahead of schedule.
The 26-year-old officially confirmed on Monday that he would join the Spanish side once his current deal ends in June.
His announcement ended a season-long saga involving Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk—each nearing the end of their contracts.
Salah and van Dijk eventually agreed to extensions, but Alexander-Arnold is now set for a fresh start abroad.
He had been frequently linked with Real Madrid, who approached Liverpool back in January in an attempt to secure his services early.
The Spanish club remains interested and is now preparing another effort to sign him before his contract expires.
Madrid hopes to include the England international in their squad for the upcoming Club World Cup in Miami, which starts on June 18 against Al Hilal.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has declared he will leave Liverpool for free when his contract expires.
The right back captured every major trophy at club level during his time with Liverpool.
Did Trent Alexander-Arnold make the right decision by choosing to leave Liverpool?
Yes, a new challenge will benefit him. No, how can you walk away from your boyhood club?
No financial terms have been disclosed yet, but sources indicate Madrid may propose a figure near £850,000.
So far, the discussions only reflect Madrid’s intent to explore the option seriously.
His contract at Liverpool runs through June 30, although the Club World Cup will kick off earlier that same month.
Following their match with Al Hilal, Madrid will face Pachuca on June 22 and Salzburg on June 27.
FIFA, the sport’s global governing body, has approved a short summer transfer window—June 1 to 10—for Club World Cup participants to make roster changes.
But even if Liverpool refuse to release him early, he might still participate later if the deal is finalized before July 3.
FIFA has created an extra registration window running from June 27 through July 3.
Meanwhile, Mail Sport has learned that Alexander-Arnold will sign a five-year contract with Real Madrid.
On Monday morning, Alexander-Arnold confirmed via X that he would leave Liverpool at the season’s end.
Real Madrid’s Club World Cup opener will be 12 days before his current contract officially ends.
He is a known close friend of Jude Bellingham, the standout Real Madrid midfielder (pictured).
Bellingham, also Alexander-Arnold’s England teammate and friend, stars for Real, who are also planning to appoint Xabi Alonso as their next head coach.
Alexander-Arnold also posted an emotional video on Monday announcing his departure, saying: “Ok. After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, I’ll be leaving at the end of the season. For me, this is a personal decision. I want to challenge myself in a new setting.
“It’s not that I’m looking for something better—it’s about growth in my career and personal journey, and now feels like the right moment to take that step.
“I understand many won’t support this decision, but I believe it’s something I need to do for my development and future.
“The times I’ve had here, the memories, and the unforgettable moments will always be some of the greatest in my life. They’ll stay with me forever.
“I’m beyond thankful to everyone who’s been part of my journey. To be sitting here today as a two-time Premier League winner with the club I grew up supporting is the perfect ending for me.
“It’s deeply emotional. This club is all I’ve ever known. It’s everything I ever dreamed of as a child. Honestly, I’m overwhelmed by the love and support I’ve received.
“The people, fans, and city have given me more than I ever imagined possible in my wildest dreams.”
He added: “What I’ve experienced is a dream come true—something millions hope for but few ever live. I feel incredibly lucky to have lived this story. I’ll never forget it, and I can’t thank everyone enough for their belief, their passion, and the special memories we created together.
“My love for Liverpool will never fade. That connection will remain strong. I will love this club forever and will always be grateful to the fans and the people who made it all possible.
“I will be back, without question. I’ll attend matches whenever I can, cheer from the stands, and always want the best for this club.
“That will never change. I will always be a Liverpool supporter.”