According to recent reports, Real Madrid has audaciously approached Liverpool with a request to release defender Trent Alexander-Arnold early and without a transfer fee so he can participate in the upcoming Club World Cup.
The full-back, a lifelong supporter and product of the Liverpool academy, is widely expected to leave Anfield this summer upon the expiration of his current contract.
While a move to the Spanish football giants has been speculated for several years, Real Madrid has yet to make a formal offer for the player.
However, the European champions are reportedly keen to integrate the England international into their squad as quickly as possible.
The Telegraph claims that Real has inquired about the possibility of Liverpool allowing the fullback to leave for “FREE” before his contract officially ends.
Real is said to have contacted the Merseyside club`s hierarchy following Alexander-Arnold`s recent confirmation that he will be leaving Anfield.
Reports suggest that Real wants the 26-year-old to be fully settled within the team before they travel to the United States for the Club World Cup, which is scheduled to begin on June 14.
Furthermore, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is reportedly eager to present the high-profile signing before the 32-team tournament commences.
Alexander-Arnold might consider waiving his final month`s wages to facilitate an earlier departure.
Ultimately, however, Liverpool retains control over the defender`s registration rights until his contract expires on June 30 and will have the final say on whether he can leave for free before that date.
Alexander-Arnold faced some audible dissent from sections of the Anfield crowd when he came on as a second-half substitute in Liverpool`s 2-2 draw against Arsenal last Sunday.
Some fans continued to voice their disapproval each time the academy graduate touched the ball during his 20-minute appearance.
Video caption: Trent Alexander-Arnold was booed by some Liverpool fans after boyhood fan confirmed he`s leaving in weeks.
Liverpool coach Arne Slot defended the fans` reaction towards Alexander-Arnold after the match.
He told Sky Sports: “In general and in life, the good thing about living in Europe is that everybody can have their opinion and that’s the same here in Liverpool.”
“There were people that were not so happy with him. There were a lot of people who were happy with him, they clapped for him.”
“A few of them booed. I think everybody is allowed to have their opinion.”
“Towards the end, I think more and more people were positive.”
“But for me, it’s simple. I owe it to the team and to the fans, to everyone, to play a team that can win a game of football.”
“And Trent showed why I brought him in because he had two or three incredible balls.”
“We were very close to winning it, partly because of him, so for me, it’s not that difficult.”
“For the fans, they have the reaction they want but I will always back my players.”
“The one that I lead, the ones that wear a red shirt. I will always back them, no matter what.”
