Real Madrid pay €10m to land Alexander-Arnold ahead of schedule for Club World Cup | OneFootball

Real Madrid have struck a deal with Liverpool to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of schedule, allowing the right-back to feature in the entire 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Madrid will pay €10 million (£8.4 million) to bring the 26-year-old in a month early, despite having already secured him on a free transfer from July 1.

The move ensures Alexander-Arnold will be available for Madrid’s group-stage games in the United States, beginning with a clash against Al Hilal on June 18.

He will also be eligible to face Pachuca on June 22 and Red Bull Salzburg on June 26.

Madrid acted quickly after FIFA introduced a special June registration window, permitting clubs to sign players before the tournament officially kicks off.

The six-year deal, which runs until 2031, was confirmed by both clubs, though the announcement was delayed following an incident in Liverpool that left dozens injured during title celebrations.

By completing the transfer now, Liverpool avoid paying the remainder of Alexander-Arnold’s wages and bonuses for the month of June.

Madrid’s willingness to pay the premium reflects their urgent need at right-back, with Dani Carvajal battling injury and Lucas Vazquez expected to depart this summer.

The Spanish giants had explored signing Alexander-Arnold as early as January for a reported €40 million, but Liverpool rejected the approach, as the player remained focused on their Premier League title bid.

Madrid instead used Valverde as an emergency full-back, including in a Champions League fixture against Salzburg when both Carvajal and Vazquez were unavailable.

The early acquisition of Alexander-Arnold not only strengthens Madrid’s short-term plans but also provides incoming manager Xabi Alonso with a key figure ahead of pre-season.

The England international had announced in May that he would leave Anfield once his contract expired, a decision that initially provoked a mixed reaction from fans.

He ends a 20-year association with Liverpool, having joined the academy at age six and made 354 senior appearances, contributing 23 goals and 92 assists.

His trophy haul includes two Premier League titles, the Champions League, a FIFA Club World Cup and domestic cup honours.

Liverpool confirmed the deal in a statement thanking Alexander-Arnold for his contribution, describing the defender’s impact on the club as “appreciated and grateful.”