Real Madrid plot new Alexander-Arnold offensive after Liverpool snub

Tom Weber

• Updated: 1 Jan 2025 07:38 CST
• 3 min read

Real Madrid are not deterred by Liverpool's rejection of a January move for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The Reds' vice-captain is out of contract in the summer and so far there has been little progress regarding an extension. While Liverpool have made him an official offer, Alexander-Arnold has yet to indicate whether or not he is willing to stay.

Unlike the similar situations with Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, it seems that Liverpool are far from confident of securing his signature and a move to Real Madrid is a concrete possibility.

READ MORE: Liverpool plotting revenge raid on Real Madrid after Alexander-Arnold pursuit

Los Blancos have been eyeing Alexander-Arnold since March of 2024 and formally approached Liverpool regarding a January transfer on Tuesday. The Premier League leaders rejected the proposal out of hand.

Fabrizio Romano has described the move as a mark of respect for the Reds, with Real Madrid showing a willingness to pay for the right-back rather than signing him for nothing in the summer.

Real Madrid will wait for Trent

However, Liverpool remain determined to convince their academy graduate to stay and commit his long-term future to the club. Additionally, according to Romano and journalist Ben Jacobs, Alexander-Arnold also has little interest in a mid-season transfer.

Liverpool are the favourites to win the Premier League this term and they also lead the Champions League standings, so there is no desire on the part of the club and the player to entertain a move.

That said, Real Madrid remain calm about the situation and are undeterred by Liverpool's initial rejection. They know that this scenario could go either way and sources close to the club are said to be confident that the European champions will end up signing the England international.

READ MORE: Real Madrid rival Liverpool for 'long-term Kroos replacement'

Real Madrid are expected to formally open talks with Alexander-Arnold's camp regarding a pre-contract agreement in the coming days and weeks, though the defender may put off making a final decision until later in the season.

Spanish media has suggested that Real Madrid have the signing of Alexander-Arnold all but wrapped up, but these claims have been played down by English reports.

Nevertheless, there is a real threat for Liverpool that their hometown hero will head to Spain this year. Alexander-Arnold is said to be 'seduced' by the idea of playing for Real Madrid.