David Ornstein Confirms Trent Alexander-Arnold is Still ‘Expected’ to Leave Liverpool to Join Real Madrid | OneFootball

David Ornstein Provides Update on Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool Exit with Real Madrid Move Looming

As Liverpool prepare for what could be a title-clinching encounter with Tottenham, conversation in Merseyside should be consumed by silverware. Arne Slot’s side are within touching distance of their 20th league title, needing just a point to seal the Premier League crown. But while football headlines ought to be dominated by tactics, line-ups and celebrations, the Trent Alexander-Arnold contract saga refuses to die down.

Fresh from his dramatic late winner against Leicester City — a moment capped with a visceral, fist-pumping celebration — Alexander-Arnold has reignited the emotional connection he shares with the Anfield faithful. His passion is unquestionable. But it’s the future that continues to breed uncertainty.

Photo: IMAGO

Divided Reaction from Supporters

Despite his heroics at the King Power Stadium, the mood among Liverpool supporters remains mixed. Some fans celebrated his return with open arms. Others, less enthused by the whispers of a Real Madrid move, voiced their discontent.

It’s this contrast — cheers and jeers in equal measure — that underpins the emotional conflict surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s final stretch in a red shirt. While his bond with Liverpool is deep-rooted, many fans are preparing themselves for a post-Trent era, unwilling to invest in a future that looks increasingly like it belongs in Madrid.

David Ornstein Delivers Stark Update

Speaking during a Q&A for The Athletic, respected journalist David Ornstein addressed the burning question on every Liverpool fan’s mind: are the club still trying to keep Alexander-Arnold, or is it time to let go of the dream?

“As has been widely reported, Jack, he is expected to join Real Madrid as a free agent,” Ornstein confirmed.

Photo: IMAGO

No ambiguity. Just the kind of measured reporting Ornstein has built his reputation on. While technically not confirmed, the phrasing leaves little room for optimism. In football’s transfer theatre, very few things are ever set in stone — but this one feels just about as close as it gets.

Madrid Beckons as Liverpool Face a Redefined Future

If Alexander-Arnold does indeed make the move to Real Madrid, he won’t just leave a gap in Liverpool’s defence. He’ll leave a hole in the club’s identity. Raised in West Derby, the 25-year-old has long been seen as the embodiment of Scouse football intelligence — blending technical flair with a local lad’s grit.

Arne Slot will need to make peace with the fact that, barring a sensational late U-turn, one of Liverpool’s most unique players of the modern era is about to trade Anfield for the Santiago Bernabéu.

While fans may wish otherwise, Ornstein’s insight reaffirms what’s been whispered for months: Trent Alexander-Arnold looks set to depart. Whether that news softens the emotional blow is another matter entirely.