Liverpool’s pursuit of the Premier League title has sparked a debate about the future of Trent Alexander-Arnold, with pundit Richard Keys urging manager Arne Slot to sell the player during the January transfer window.
The Reds currently sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League table, putting them on track to secure their 20th league title and match Manchester United’s record.
Under Slot’s leadership, Liverpool has thrived domestically and in Europe, yet the speculation surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s future threatens to disrupt the squad’s momentum.
The 26-year-old, who has been linked with a summer move to Real Madrid, reportedly remains open to a switch to the Bernabéu. Over the weekend, Liverpool rejected a £20m bid for the England international, but Keys believes the club should accept Madrid’s offer.
In his blog, Keys stated, “Trent’s skill set is better suited to Madrid. Defending is not his strength, and this ongoing saga is a distraction. Liverpool should get the deal done and move forward.”
Alexander-Arnold’s performance during Liverpool’s recent 2-2 draw with Manchester United has also fueled criticism. While some attributed his struggles to transfer rumors, manager Slot and defender Virgil van Dijk dismissed such claims.
Van Dijk commented, “Trent has his people around him, and we are here for him too. He wants to perform at his best, just like all of us. That’s where the focus is.”
Slot added, “The rumors didn’t affect him. Playing against Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, two starters for Portugal, is more challenging than dealing with speculation.”
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher hinted that the ongoing speculation might have distracted Alexander-Arnold, but the club remains determined to stay focused as they aim to secure silverware this season.
With Real Madrid intensifying their pursuit, the coming weeks could prove pivotal for both Alexander-Arnold’s future and Liverpool’s title aspirations.
Offer him a signing-on bonus for another two year contract but agree to sell him in the summer for an agreed ‘not too stupid’ fee.
This is an absolute non story. Why would anyone try to sign him now when they can have him for nothing in the summer.
If they’ve approached him in January they are more interested in destabilising an opposing club than the player himself. Otherwise they would happily wait until the summer.
Conor Bradley is the future
If we’re being really ruthless we should sell him but for no less than 50m and if Madrid don’t wanna pay that then keep Trent in the squad but don’t play him and go and get a new RB and start him. Go to Chelsea for acheampong and get him.