Trent Alexander-Arnold appears to be on the verge of joining Real Madrid, with recent reports indicating the Liverpool star is eager to link up with the reigning champions of Spain and Europe. The 26-year-old right-back has been on Madrid’s radar for some time, and a move now looks inevitable as his contract with the Merseyside club runs out at the end of June.
Although Los Blancos were initially expected to sign him as a free agent in July, there is now a possibility that Liverpool could still receive a payment for their long-serving defender. The Mail reports that Madrid may push to secure his arrival before the FIFA Club World Cup this summer.
Potential early transfer and financial implications
Real Madrid are reportedly very eager to finalize the signing before the tournament begins on June 14. Since Alexander-Arnold’s contract with Liverpool will still be active at that time, an early transfer would require Madrid to compensate the Premier League side.
The financial details of such a move remain unclear. Madrid might only need to cover the remainder of his salary for June, or Liverpool could demand a higher amount to allow an early release. Estimates suggest that buying out the final month of his deal could cost Madrid between £700,000 and £800,000. Given that teams competing in the Club World Cup earn £1.5 million per group stage victory, Liverpool could find themselves in a favorable position to negotiate.
Summer transfer window and Club World Cup considerations
The Premier League has officially confirmed the opening and closing dates for the upcoming summer transfer window. The market will initially open between June 1 and June 10 before briefly shutting and reopening on June 16.
This early period allows all clubs, including those participating in the Club World Cup, to complete transfers before heading to North America for the tournament. If Madrid wants Alexander-Arnold available for the competition’s opening stages, they may find it worthwhile to pay a fee and complete the deal ahead of schedule.
With both financial and sporting factors at play, Liverpool could yet benefit from Alexander-Arnold’s departure despite his contract expiring in just a few weeks.
