Real Madrid are pushing to secure the early arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold in time for the Club World Cup this summer, with the Spanish giants hoping to complete a deal before his Liverpool contract officially expires.
The 26-year-old England international recently confirmed he will leave Liverpool at the end of the 2024–25 season after 18 years at the club. His current contract runs until 30 June, but the Club World Cup — organised by FIFA and set to be staged in the United States — begins on 14 June, leaving a two-week gap in eligibility.
BBC Sport understands Real Madrid have initiated talks with Liverpool to explore the possibility of releasing Alexander-Arnold before the expiry of his deal, to integrate him into their squad ahead of the revamped Club World Cup, which is expected to draw global attention and serve as a showcase for top clubs.
Sources close to the negotiation describe the discussions as “amicable,” with no suggestion of tension between the clubs. Real are reportedly preparing an offer in the region of £850,000 as compensation to Liverpool in exchange for Alexander-Arnold’s early release. The Spanish side are also said to be considering covering the defender’s wages for the final two weeks of June, as part of the overall agreement.
Though Alexander-Arnold will be available on a free transfer from 1 July, Real’s interest in securing his services for the Club World Cup adds financial and sporting value to an otherwise straightforward Bosman transfer. From Liverpool’s perspective, the proposal presents an opportunity to recoup at least a symbolic fee for a player who has been central to the club’s success in the last decade.
A Legacy at Anfield
Trent Alexander-Arnold, a product of Liverpool’s academy, has been instrumental in the club’s modern era under Jürgen Klopp. Since his breakthrough in 2016, he has helped Liverpool win two Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, the FA Cup, the League Cup, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Known for redefining the full-back role with his passing range, vision, and set-piece ability, Alexander-Arnold has become one of the most influential defenders of his generation. His departure marks the end of an era for Liverpool and is expected to spark significant reshaping in their backline.
Although he remains a fan favourite, the decision not to renew his contract had reportedly been under discussion for some time, with the player keen on a new challenge abroad. Real Madrid, long admirers of the right-back, view him as a natural long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal, and a key figure in their evolving squad.
FIFA Confirms Early Transfer Window
FIFA has confirmed that a short transfer window will open from 1 to 10 June, specifically for clubs involved in the Club World Cup to register new players. This window allows participating clubs — including Real Madrid — to make squad adjustments in time for the tournament’s start on 14 June.
The timing of this window gives Real Madrid a narrow but viable opportunity to register Alexander-Arnold, provided an agreement with Liverpool can be finalised swiftly. Failure to do so would mean the defender misses the tournament entirely and only joins up with the squad in July, potentially missing pre-season integration.
A Deal in the Making
As things stand, all parties appear open to a pragmatic solution. Liverpool would receive a parting fee and shed wages, Alexander-Arnold would avoid a month on the sidelines before his official unveiling, and Real would bolster their squad for the Club World Cup — a tournament they are eager to win as part of their global brand strategy.
While a final agreement is yet to be reached, there is optimism that a deal could be wrapped up before the short FIFA window opens, ensuring one of the summer’s most high-profile free transfers begins with a competitive flourish.
