- Real Madrid have been closely linked with a move for Trent Alexander-Arnold
- He can sign a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs from the beginning of January
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Liverpool are reportedly working hard to keep hold of Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer, with the Reds star’s deal set to expire at the end of the season, which would be a huge loss for the club.
Alexander-Arnold is a boyhood Liverpool fan and has spent his entire career at the club, but without a contract extension he has increasingly been linked with a move to Real Madrid.
For Alexander-Arnold – an emblematic figure at the club, vice-captain and arguably the best right-back in the world – leaving for nothing in the summer would be a debilitating blow to the Reds.
Given the uncertainty surrounding his future, there is understandably a huge interest in his situation.
However, the Athletics reports that work is being done to secure his services for the near future, although there is still no breakthrough in talks.
The longer the talks go on, the more confidence candidates like Real Madrid will gain, especially if they know they can sign him from January 1.
Trent Alexander-Arnold can leave Liverpool for free with a contract yet to be offered
Real Madrid’s interest in the England international right-back is well documented
Alexander-Arnold is one of the best in the world in his position, but could leave Liverpool for free
The club do not want to miss out on their defensive star, but their hand may be forced to try and match both the stature and financial might of Real Madrid if talks with the player stall for much longer.
Alexander-Arnold has been impressive for Liverpool in their title campaign so far this season and wants to enjoy life under Arne Slot.
The Reds currently sit at the top of the table with 34 points after losing just one match, nine points ahead of Arsenal in second place and Chelsea in third.
Despite being criticized for his defensive work in the past – with his attacking abilities unparalleled among right-backs – he has reportedly started working on his game with his back to goal.
He reportedly has regular one-on-one conversations with boss Slot about how he can improve and what he is doing well.
Alexander-Arnold is one of three Liverpool superstars out of contract at the end of the season.
Mohamed Salah and captain Virgil van Dijk are also without deals for the 2024-2025 period, with the former having already expressed his apparent frustration at the lack of progress.
Speaking to a small group of reporters after the win over Southampton, Salah said: ‘We are almost in December and I have not yet received any offers to stay at the club. I’m probably outside more than inside.
Arne Slot is said to have held one-on-one sessions with his star right back
Virgil van Dijk is one of two other key stars currently out of contract at the end of 2024-2025.
Mohamed Salah has already expressed his own frustration at the lack of talks over a new deal
‘You know I’ve been at the club for years. There is no club like this. But ultimately it’s out of my hands. Like I said, it’s December and I haven’t received anything about my future yet.
‘I love the fans. The fans love me. Ultimately it is not in my hands, nor in the hands of the fans.’
Asked if he was disappointed with the lack of progress, Salah replied: “Of course, yes. I’m not retiring anytime soon so I’m just playing, focusing on the season and trying to win the Premier League and hopefully the Champions League too. I’m disappointed, but we’ll see.
‘I am very professional. Everyone can see my work ethic. I’m just trying to enjoy my football and continue playing at the highest level for as long as possible.’
Mail Sport understands Liverpool have contacted Salah’s agent Ramy Abbas about the contract and senior Anfield sources have suggested these talks have been positive.