Report: Real Madrid Frustrated Over Liverpool Star’s Contract Stalemate | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s Frustration with Trent Alexander-Arnold

Real Madrid’s pursuit of Trent Alexander-Arnold has dominated headlines throughout the January transfer window, but the saga seems far from over. With Liverpool resolutely holding their ground, the situation has reportedly left Los Blancos “angry” with how Alexander-Arnold has managed discussions.

Madrid’s Interest and Liverpool’s Stance

Real Madrid’s interest in Alexander-Arnold escalated following Dani Carvajal’s serious knee ligament injury in October, which left Lucas Vázquez as the club’s only natural right-back. Carlo Ancelotti’s side, chasing both La Liga and Champions League titles, identified Alexander-Arnold as their primary target.

Photo: IMAGO

Reports initially suggested Madrid hoped to secure Alexander-Arnold for a modest €15-20 million in January, citing his contract expiration in June 2025. However, Liverpool quickly rebuffed such offers, determined to retain their vice-captain while competing for Premier League and European honours.

Despite the Merseyside club’s refusal to sell, Madrid reportedly maintained “constant contact” with the player’s representatives. Some Spanish outlets went as far as claiming a preliminary agreement had been reached for a summer free transfer. However, Sky Sports dismissed these claims, emphasising Liverpool’s unwavering position.

The Source of Madrid’s Frustration

According to Sky Sports Switzerland, Madrid’s frustration stems from a “slowdown in discussion” with Alexander-Arnold’s entourage. Madrid had hoped the player might pressure Liverpool into sanctioning a January move, but that strategy has not borne fruit.

As a result, Madrid are now turning their attention to Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich. The German international is also out of contract in the summer and has been linked with Liverpool during this window. The dual purpose of this approach is clear: create a smokescreen around Alexander-Arnold negotiations and establish a viable alternative should talks with the Liverpool star ultimately collapse.

Photo IMAGO

Alexander-Arnold, known for his composed professionalism, has maintained silence amidst the rumours. When asked about his contract in September, he stated:

“I have signed four or five contract extensions and none of those have been played out in public. This one won’t be either.”

Meanwhile, Kimmich has been similarly reserved, stating in a recent interview:

“There will be an update at some point, but I am not going to comment on it every three days.”

Madrid’s growing frustration highlights the difficulty in navigating such high-profile transfer sagas, particularly when dealing with clubs as steadfast as Liverpool.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will view this saga with both concern and scepticism. On one hand, losing Alexander-Arnold would represent a monumental blow. Not only is he a generational talent, but he also embodies the club’s identity, having risen through the academy to become a cornerstone of the team’s success.

The January transfer window highlighted Liverpool’s refusal to compromise, but the summer brings uncertainty. With Alexander-Arnold’s contract running down, Madrid’s interest is unlikely to wane. Fans are left questioning why the club has not yet tied down one of its most important players to a new deal.

Equally worrying is Alexander-Arnold’s silence. While he is known for his calm demeanour, a public show of commitment to Liverpool would go a long way in quelling fears. The reported frustration from Madrid suggests that negotiations have not progressed as they might have hoped, but this leaves questions about Liverpool’s own plans.

If Alexander-Arnold were to leave, the void he would leave behind – both tactically and symbolically – would be difficult to fill. Liverpool’s midfield rebuild has shown promise, but allowing such an integral player to walk away would be a significant setback.

Ultimately, the summer window will be pivotal. If Liverpool can secure Champions League football and convince Alexander-Arnold to remain, the club will have navigated this saga successfully. If not, the repercussions could resonate for years to come.