Real Madrid Make Insulting Request to Liverpool Over Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Future – Report | OneFootball

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Real Madrid: Free Transfer Request Tests Liverpool’s Resolve

In a move that’s stirred tension and disbelief across Merseyside, Real Madrid have officially requested that Liverpool release Trent Alexander-Arnold for free, allowing the England international to join the Spanish giants in time for the Club World Cup starting June 15. As reported by The Telegraph, Madrid have “not made a financial offer to Liverpool and simply hope they will relent and allow the right-back to join them for nothing.”

That’s right—Madrid, one of the wealthiest clubs in the world, have knocked on Liverpool’s door not with a suitcase full of cash, but with the hope of goodwill. It’s a staggering ask, especially considering the symbolism and strategic importance of Alexander-Arnold’s potential early departure.

Timeline Tensions and Tournament Troubles

The 26-year-old Scouser is set to leave Liverpool at the end of his contract on June 30 and sign with Madrid on a five-year deal. However, Real Madrid want him registered early to play in their Club World Cup group fixtures, including clashes with Al-Hilal, Pachuca, and RB Salzburg.

According to The Telegraph, “Alexander-Arnold cannot simply walk out – because they [Liverpool] will hold the player’s registration until his contract expires.” This legal technicality prevents Madrid from fast-tracking his debut without Liverpool’s explicit blessing.

Photo: IMAGO

There’s talk of the player forgoing his final month’s salary, which suggests Trent is open to smoothing the transition. However, whether this goodwill gesture extends to Liverpool’s side of the table remains to be seen.

Xabi Alonso’s Arrival Adds Spice

Madrid’s urgency isn’t just about football logistics—it’s about brand, narrative, and global marketing. With Xabi Alonso replacing Carlo Ancelotti as head coach, Madrid are keen to “parade the marquee signing as part of their involvement in the Club World Cup.” They’re not just building a team—they’re constructing a spectacle.

Interestingly, Bayer Leverkusen have allowed Alonso to leave a year early, for free, and Madrid may see this precedent as justification for asking Liverpool for the same courtesy. But that comparison is flawed. Alonso wasn’t playing in midfield at the BayArena—Alexander-Arnold is still wearing the red shirt and remains vital to Arne Slot’s title-winning squad.

A Complicated Goodbye

Alexander-Arnold’s departure was already emotionally charged. After he came on during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal, he was “booed by Liverpool supporters”, reflecting the hurt among fans. Despite this, manager Arne Slot said “he would continue to pick Alexander-Arnold for the final two games of the season.” It’s a professional stance from a man managing both a football team and a simmering dressing room.

And while Madrid “had suggested they were prepared to offer between £500,000 and £850,000,” they’ve since backed away from that figure. Now, they’re asking for generosity over negotiation. But for a club like Liverpool—known for meticulous planning and financial discipline—such a gesture may be hard to stomach.

What’s at Stake for Liverpool?

Beyond pride, the request touches on legal, commercial, and cultural issues. Letting Alexander-Arnold leave early sets a precedent. It would allow a rival superclub to dictate terms, potentially undermining Liverpool’s leverage in future deals.

And from a football perspective, Slot will want his vice-captain available until the very last whistle of the campaign. Alexander-Arnold may not wear number 66 again, but Liverpool have every right to keep their longest-serving player until the contract says otherwise.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this is galling. First, we had to watch a born-and-bred Red decide to leave. Now, we’re being asked to hand him over early—for nothing? Real Madrid wouldn’t do that for us. Why should we oblige them?

Let’s be clear—this isn’t about money, even though Madrid can afford it. It’s about respect. Trent is one of our own. If he’s leaving, let him do it on our terms. He still has matches to play. He still owes the shirt that made him. If he wants to “forego his salary,” that’s between him and his new agent. It doesn’t mean we should be bullied.

And then there’s Madrid’s hypocrisy. They’ve given us crumbs when negotiating before, but now want a five-star favour? This might be smart business from their end, but it reeks of entitlement. They got Alonso for free from Leverkusen? Good for them. That doesn’t mean we owe them the same favour.

Slot just led us to a Premier League title. Let’s not let our final weeks be disrupted by a club that only looks out for itself. If they want Trent early, they can pay. Otherwise, they can wait—just like everyone else.