Trent Alexander-Arnold’s recent interview has convinced some Liverpool fans that he will move to Real Madrid.
The Reds’ academy product’s contract expires in June and he can negotiate a possible free transfer with overseas clubs in January.
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Real Madrid’s links with the 26-year-old are well documented and the Reds star recently insisted that any new contract would be kept secret.
However, a new interview with the right-back has now been released – and many Liverpool fans are convinced he is heading to the Bernabeu.
Speaking to Men in Blazers, the England international was asked what he would like to achieve in his career after winning so many trophies at Liverpool.
He said: “Obviously winning more trophies but I think on a personal level it’s a legacy to build a legacy.”
“I think this is important.”
When asked what the legacy would be, he replied: “It is only spoken of in the highest regard. Especially after you’re done.”
“So I think in 10, 15 years time I’m going to be called one of the best right-backs or the best right-back, then I think that’s what I play for and what I use as motivation.”
Fans called for Alexander-Arnold to stay in the comments section of the interview, but others revealed they were now convinced he would leave.
“This is the interview that convinced me Trent was going to Real Madrid,” wrote one.
A second said: “After this interview I think it’s almost certain he’ll leave.”
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A third added: “I think he’s moving to Real Madrid.”
“But when I hear him talk about it, I feel a lot more understanding of his decision as he has been completely silent and recently put in an amazing performance against Fulham.”
“Just sign a contract and please give the club some money to reinvest. Otherwise, good luck.”
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has warned that Alexander-Arnold Reds fans may find it difficult to see him as a club legend if he moves to Real Madrid this summer – especially if he leaves on a free transfer.
He wrote in The Telegraph: “As a local you are always treated differently. We saw it with Steven Gerrard.”
“Even the thought of moving to Chelsea twice in his career temporarily damaged his relationship with Liverpool fans. Was that fair? It was just the reality of having a passionate tribal fan base.”
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“My team-mate Michael Owen had one year left when he moved from Liverpool to Real in 2004.
“He also played in a struggling Liverpool team with a new coach – Rafael Benitez – and a lot of uncertainty.”
“Once again, Real paid just £8 million for a footballer who was worth much more.”
“Michael’s time at Manchester United later in his career would have done more damage to his legacy, but still – the terms of his departure to Real didn’t help.”
Steve McManaman, a product of the Liverpool academy – and now a Reds legend – also moved to Real Madrid on a free transfer in 1999.
It’s likely that some will be bitter about his departure if Alexander-Arnold does indeed become a Real Madrid player in the summer – but it’s also likely that many others will wish their teenage star well in his future career.
Alexander-Arnold has made 20 appearances this season and has picked up four assists so far.
He has been a key cog in Liverpool’s teams since his debut in 2016, winning the Premier League and Champions League as well as the FA Cup and two League Cups under former manager Jürgen Klopp.
Liverpool are currently at the top of the Champions League and Premier League.