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Real Madrid’s Pursuit of Alexander-Arnold Intensifies Amid Defensive Woes

Real Madrid’s recent performances have exposed pressing issues within their defence, particularly at right-back, a position previously anchored by Dani Carvajal. Marca reports that Madrid’s sporting management is urgently seeking reinforcements, with Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold emerging as the standout target. Despite planning to address this position next summer, Carvajal’s injury has fast-tracked Madrid’s need for a quality right-back, making January a pivotal transfer window for the Spanish giants.

Urgent Needs Lead Madrid to Alexander-Arnold

Alexander-Arnold is widely regarded as one of the most talented right-backs in world football, known for his exceptional playmaking and crossing abilities. Madrid’s desperation is evident: “What has been seen in recent games forces us to think of the Englishman or some other important alternative,” Marca reports. Carvajal’s absence leaves Lucas Vázquez as the only specialist right-back, a role Madrid’s coaching staff appears reluctant to solely entrust to him. Experimentation with players like Éder Militão in that position has been unconvincing, leading Madrid to prioritise a high-profile solution.

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Real Madrid’s admiration for Alexander-Arnold has been long-standing, but Liverpool’s financial stability makes this a challenging pursuit. Marca highlights that Liverpool, unlike clubs in financial distress, are under no pressure to sell star players mid-season. This reality complicates Madrid’s plans, as the Reds reportedly have little intention of parting ways with Alexander-Arnold. Liverpool also has an internal succession plan in Connor Bradley, which reduces the immediate need to cash in on their star right-back.

Defensive Gaps Beyond Right-Back

While right-back remains Madrid’s most urgent requirement, the team is reportedly considering further defensive reinforcement, particularly in central defence. With David Alaba nearing his return to fitness, his readiness remains uncertain, necessitating contingency plans. Marca points out that “Lukeba is the main candidate for the centre of defence,” referencing the RB Leipzig star as a player on Madrid’s radar. However, Madrid’s primary focus will remain the right-back role until they can secure a reliable alternative to Carvajal.

Interestingly, Madrid’s previous strategy involved a phased reinforcement of the midfield rather than the backline, a decision now up for scrutiny. The club’s faith in Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Eduardo Camavinga as successors in midfield left the defence under-addressed, a move they are likely to reconsider as they assess long-term prospects.

Liverpool’s Stance on Their Core Players

Liverpool currently leads their Champions League group and remains a Premier League title contender under new manager Arne Slot. With Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah out of contract in 2025, Marca suggests Liverpool’s management may aim to retain at least two of these key players to avoid disrupting their competitive edge. Alexander-Arnold is integral to Slot’s tactical setup, making his potential departure an unappealing prospect for Liverpool’s board and fans alike.

Photo: IMAGO

However, European football’s January transfer window opens doors for clubs like Madrid to approach players in the final year of their contracts. Should Liverpool hold firm against a January sale, Madrid may be forced to explore alternative right-back solutions. Yet, Marca’s insight into Madrid’s intentions signals that Alexander-Arnold remains a preferred target, underscoring how crucial the club’s management views this position.

Strategic Importance of Alexander-Arnold’s Playmaking

Madrid’s fixation on Alexander-Arnold aligns with a broader vision for the squad. His technical skillset would add a creative dimension to Madrid’s play, particularly in high-stakes matches. Marca eloquently summarises the dilemma: “Carvajal’s character and competitive gene is something that cannot be bought,” yet Alexander-Arnold could bring balance and quality that Madrid’s right flank currently lacks.

If Madrid fails to acquire him in January, Liverpool’s stance will face increased scrutiny as they approach summer, a time when clubs often reassess contract situations more seriously. As it stands, Madrid’s intentions are clear – they view Alexander-Arnold as a missing link that could elevate their ambitions domestically and in Europe.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Alexander-Arnold is unsettling yet unsurprising. Trent represents more than just a right-back for the Reds; he embodies the club’s identity, bringing a homegrown passion and creativity unmatched in his position. His potential departure would create a void not easily filled, particularly with Liverpool’s tactical dependence on his pinpoint crosses and build-up play under Arne Slot. “Madrid’s admiration may be flattering, but losing Trent would be catastrophic for Liverpool’s aspirations,” many Reds fans would agree.

Slot’s appointment marked a new era for Liverpool, focusing on attacking flair and high-intensity play. To lose a linchpin like Alexander-Arnold could disrupt that trajectory, especially mid-season when replacements of equal calibre are rarely available. Moreover, Connor Bradley, while talented, remains unproven in high-stakes competitions. Thus, any move that unsettles Alexander-Arnold would undoubtedly rile the Anfield faithful, who see him as irreplaceable, particularly with Liverpool chasing another Premier League title.