Trent Alexander-Arnold has told Liverpool he will not sign a new contract and wants to join Real Madrid, according to reports in Spain.
The right-back's future remains a key talking point as he nears the final six months of his contract. He came through the ranks at Anfield and enjoyed huge success, but had yet to make a decision.
Despite Alexander-Arnold's affection for the club, he is keen to take on a new challenge and this summer he appears to have his sights set on a move to the Spanish capital. Marca claims the 26-year-old has informed Liverpool's hierarchy of his decision to leave for Real on a free this summer.
Alexander-Arnold is one of three leaders who face an uncertain future, with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk also seeing their contracts expire this summer.
It is understood that Los Blancos, the current Champions League holders, are willing to discuss terms once the January transfer window opens. However, the Reds would prefer him to leave as a free agent in the summer rather than on a fee next month. They still have ambitions to win multiple silverware and Alexander-Arnold will help their cause.
The chance to play alongside close friend and England team-mate Jude Bellingham is reportedly an added incentive for Alexander-Arnold, who has been pictured with the Real star in the past.
The right-back previously claimed his ultimate ambition was to win the Ballon d'Or. It would make him the first player in his position to ever do so and Jamie Carragher admitted he was unlikely to achieve that at Liverpool but had a better chance if he moved to Real.
However, the ex-Liverpool man warned him of the risks of a recent move. He said: “If he stays at the club. He will be remembered as one of the best players to ever play for the football club, not far behind Steven Gerrard. If he doesn't, he won't be remembered as That.
“If he doesn't care that's fine, but I'm just telling you what Liverpool supporters are [think]. He added: “If I were to advise Trent I would say: it's not just about leaving. I think people understand at Real Madrid. A big part of that is the free transfer. That's a lot of everything It's the fear that you won't leave us. [but] Where is our money to replace you?”
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