Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to move to Real Madrid, although the transfer has not been officially sealed. The England right-back has contracts with Liverpool until June 30 and has turned down offers of renewal, readying himself for a new era in Spain.
While Liverpool retain a glimmer of hope to retain him, Real Madrid are eager to finalize the deal soon—especially with the FIFA Club World Cup commencing on June 14.
Liverpool Ready to Early Release—With Conditions
Liverpool are ready to release Alexander-Arnold prior to the end of his contract—but only under two conditions, as per AS.
1. Personal Request from the Player:
Liverpool would like Alexander-Arnold to formally request an early release. While he is departing, the player-club relationship remains cordial.
2. Financial Concessions:
Since he is moving on a free transfer, Liverpool anticipate the defender to forego his June wages—reportedly just shy of €1 million—as a goodwill gesture. In addition, while not obligatory, Liverpool would also welcome a modest compensation fee from Real Madrid, likely below €1 million.
In total, Alexander-Arnold's early release will cost Real Madrid between €1.5 and €2 million.
Photo: Carl Recine/Getty Images
Final Steps: FIFA Registration
After the finances are completed, Real Madrid will be required to register Alexander-Arnold for the Club World Cup. Two transfer windows have been made available by FIFA particularly for the tournament: June 1–10 and June 27–July 3 (the latter for quarter-finalists). Real Madrid would like to use the earlier window because they begin their campaign on June 18 against Al Hilal.
With Dani Carvajal still recovering from an injury that occurred way back, Alexander-Arnold is likely to play a key role short and long term.
Real Madrid News: Agent Silences Transfer Rumors as 'Pure Invention'
With increased rumors that link Benfica's Álvaro Carreras to Real Madrid transfer activity, the player's agent has put an end to all speculations.
Carreras, 22, has been making waves with his performances in the Portuguese league and Champions League, especially in high-profile matches like against Barcelona.
However, when questioned by A Bola (via SPORT), Carreras' agent Gines Carvajal silenced any talk of ongoing talks:
"I don't know where that rumour comes from. Everything that's said is absolute invention and doesn't merit any comment from my part," Carvajal insisted.
"Carreras is doing okay at Benfica and will remain there."
Madrid Interest & Man Utd Buyback Twist
It had been some indication that Real Madrid were courting Carreras as a solution to their left-back issue, even though later they denied interest. His contract at Benfica contains an €60 million release clause.
Interestingly, Manchester United—Carreras' former club—are said to possess a €20 million buyback option. One potential loophole had been suggested: United would re-purchase Carreras and sell him on to Madrid for €35 million, pocketing a €15 million profit.
That plan now looks dead in the water. Carreras remains set on his Benfica destiny, and Madrid may have to look elsewhere for left-back protection.
