Report: Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold Targeted by Real Madrid for January Transfer | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s Defensive Dilemma: Could Alexander-Arnold’s Move Come Sooner Than Expected?

As Sport ES report, Real Madrid’s defence is in dire straits following Dani Carvajal’s injury. With just six defenders at his disposal, manager Carlo Ancelotti finds himself grappling with a serious shortage in the backline. Among his limited choices are centre-backs Militao, Rudiger, and Vallejo, while Lucas Vazquez is the only true right-back option. The club is now considering a January intervention, potentially bringing forward their interest in Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Madrid’s Transfer Decision-Making

Florentino Perez has traditionally been hesitant to disrupt the club’s finances with mid-season transfers, even during critical times. However, with Madrid’s limited defensive resources, the need to strengthen has become glaringly apparent. Sport ES highlights: “The Whites will not be able to hold out for the whole season at the highest level.”

Perez’s initial plan involved securing Alexander-Arnold in the summer on a free transfer, avoiding any fee altogether. But circumstances may force Madrid’s hand, and the club could offer Liverpool financial compensation to release the English international earlier than anticipated. This move would provide immediate support for Ancelotti, while still aligning with the long-term strategy.

Perfect Fit?

Trent Alexander-Arnold, currently in the last six months of his Liverpool contract, has already shown interest in a move to Madrid. His versatility—able to play at right-back or even in a central defensive role—makes him an ideal solution for Real’s backline problems. The Liverpool star has long been tipped for a move to Spain, particularly due to his close friendship with fellow England international Jude Bellingham.

As Sport ES points out: “Arnold, a close friend of Bellingham, was already quite convinced to go to Madrid, although it remains to be seen whether he is in a position to bring forward his arrival.” If Alexander-Arnold joins earlier than expected, his presence could stabilise a Madrid defence struggling with both injuries and depth issues.

Next Steps for Los Blancos

Madrid’s decision-making in the coming months will be critical. If they proceed with Alexander-Arnold, he will join a defence that’s barely holding together, where players like Tchouameni may have to fill in unfamiliar roles just to give others a break. The club’s interest in Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies as a long-term addition also suggests they’re aiming for a significant rebuild.

Madrid fans will be watching closely, hoping Perez is willing to adapt his conservative financial stance to ensure the team can remain competitive in all competitions this season.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans might be torn, but many could feel a bit excited by this possibility; especially if the club have already been told that Trent has no intention to sign a new deal with the club. Alexander-Arnold has been a crucial part of the squad for years, and while his potential departure would be a massive blow, the thought of him joining a club like Real Madrid might feel like an exciting step in his career. Watching him link up with Bellingham and potentially play in Champions League finals is a thrilling prospect, even if it’s not in Liverpool red.

There’s also the compensation angle. If Madrid are willing to pay to bring Trent over in January, that would mean funds for Liverpool to strengthen their own squad. With Arne Slot at the helm, this could provide opportunities for the Reds to invest in a strong replacement. Many fans might trust Slot to reshape the squad, and the move could open doors for younger players to step into Trent’s shoes, or allow Liverpool to invest in other areas that need attention.

Liverpool fans could view this transfer as both a nostalgic farewell and a chance for the club to reinvest. Though losing Trent would be bittersweet, seeing him excel on one of football’s biggest stages might lessen the sting for many fans.