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 central to the Reds’ incredible start to the campaign under Arne Slot – with his side sitting top in England and in Europe.
However, consistent speculation has fixated on the future of three of their most integral players with the deals set to expire – with Alexander-Arnold among them.
The full-back has since been closely linked with a potential move to Madrid next season – with Mail Sport understanding that the Spanish giants are growing increasingly convinced over signing Alexander-Arnold.
Now, a report from Marca has suggested that the England international is their sole target heading into the January window.
The outlet claim that, due to the injury of first-choice full-back Dani Carvajal, Alexander-Arnold has become the priority for Madrid.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid is nearing completion, according to a report
Those in Madrid are adamant Alexander-Arnold wants a new challenge under Carlo Ancelotti
Thought the likelihood is that the Liverpool star will join for free in summer, there is potential he could force a move through during the January window.
Alexander-Arnold is first choice, with Tottenham’s Pedro Porro believed to be a back-up, and the good relationship between the clubs dictated that Los Blancos informed Liverpool in decent time and there were no issues.
Initially, the Reds backed themselves to convince the fan favourite to stay at Anfield but they are thought to be losing the race at the hands of the 15-time Champions League winners.
There has been persistent speculation about 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 rumour mill by giving a running commentary on the situation.
But Madrid, the 15-time European Champions, have been waiting in the wings since he entered the final 12 months of his contract and Mail Sport understand they are starting to plan for life with the England international.
Sources close to Liverpool insist no agreement has been reached. And it is understood the player’s only contacts over his future to this date have been with Liverpool. Those in the Spanish capital are adamant Alexander-Arnold wants a new challenge under Carlo Ancelotti.
It has been a highly-pressurised situation for Liverpool, who are potentially going to lose a £80million asset for nothing.
The opportunity to play alongside close friend and England team-mate Jude Bellingham is also said to serve as an incentive for Alexander-Arnold to make the move.
The Liverpool-born star joined the club at the age of six and has played 332 times for the first team, winning every major honour along the way including the Champions League and Premier League.
More to follow…