With Real Madrid desperately trying to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold, talks were always to be expected in the Liverpool dressing room.
The Pitch Prospect reported that Real Madrid’s Alexander-Arnold was a top target this summer and that his England pal Jude Bellingham was being used as a secret agent to secure his signature.
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He was even spotted signing Madrid shirts this summer.
The right-back’s contract expires next year, but The Pitch Prospect understands that Liverpool are secretly convinced that he will sign a new deal.
Still, it’s hard to turn down a call from Real Madrid, and Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool teammates couldn’t resist poking a little fun at the situation.
In footage that has since gone viral on social media, Alexander-Arnold, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez can be seen walking down the stairs.
Diaz could be heard saying quietly: “Real Madrid? Ciao.”
Alexander-Arnold turns around after hearing what the Colombian said and tries not to react, but laughs quietly, while Nunez cannot suppress a smile.
The defender has now returned to training in Liverpool after being given an extended break last month for helping England reach the final of the 2024 European Championships.
Gareth Southgate used the 25-year-old sparingly during his last tournament as England manager, when the Three Lions lost at the final hurdle to Spain in Berlin.
There has also been a changing of the guard at Liverpool FC: Arne Slot has succeeded crowd favourite Jürgen Klopp, which has led to speculation about a mini-exodus.
In addition to Alexander-Arnold, the contracts of top duo Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah also expire in June 2025, and there is no indication so far that they will extend their contracts.
The Saudi Pro League has long been interested in bringing Salah to their league. A multi-million dollar offer was made last summer, but the Reds flatly rejected any move.
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But they may not be able to prevent Salah’s departure next summer if the Egyptian international decides not to sign a new contract.
Slot has yet to make any new signings as Liverpool head coach, but there are links with Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, as well as Newcastle United and former Everton star Anthony Gordon.
Nevertheless, the team from Anfield made an impressive impression during their pre-season tour of the US so far.
They beat their Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester United, as well as Spanish team Real Betis.
Slot’s side next face Sevilla at Anfield on Sunday after returning from the States on Sunday.