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.
Only reason Madrid would do this is because they know they can wait and get him for free. This was most likely a good faith gesture from Trent
I don’t think this is coming from Trent. I think Real Madrid are trying to destabilise LFC. What does Trent have to gain from this? LFC were never going to accept so Trent just decided he wanted 6 months to taint his legacy? Instead of announcing it quietly at the season end.
Why do people say Real Madrid are the best team in the world? Champions League titles are questionable! La Liga not really the hardest or most competitive league in the world. They just throw money at players who are on free transfers! The only thing they have is PR!
They have had encouragement by Trents brothers to do this, they would not come if they haven’t been told he wants to go.
Take the capacity off him ! To leave it like this as a Scouser makes it even worse. He could have just said I’m staying but it will take time. But he hasn’t
Leave in the right way, don’t destroy your legacy over the bright lights and a supposed mate
Do it the right way, sign an extension with a buy out clause so the club that you supposedly love will receive a transfer fee and leave with legacy intact with the blessing of the fans