Trent Alexander-Arnold will exit Liverpool for free once his contract concludes this summer, with sources indicating that the defender turned down a contract offer that would have positioned him among the highest-paid full-backs globally.
The England international is purportedly set to move to Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer, having disclosed his choice in a statement on Monday. Sources mentioned in March that Madrid remains “very hopeful” about securing Alexander-Arnold, though no agreement with the player has been completed.
Trent Alexander-Arnold statement
“I want to begin by saying that this is not an easy choice and that a great deal of consideration and emotion has gone into it,” Alexander-Arnold stated. “Having been here for 20 years and relishing every moment, I’ve accomplished all my aspirations and fulfilled everything I’ve ever desired during my time here.
“After giving my all day in and day out for two decades, I’ve reached a point where I feel I require a new direction, a new challenge both as a player and as an individual. I believe this is the right moment for me to pursue that.”
Alexander-Arnold joined Liverpool at six years old, with his contract set to end at the season’s conclusion.
The 26-year-old right-back, appointed vice-captain in the summer of 2023, has played 349 matches for Liverpool, securing seven significant trophies throughout his tenure at Anfield. He will reunite with his close friend and England teammate Jude Bellingham in Madrid.
Reports indicate that discussions regarding Alexander-Arnold’s contract began last season during Jürgen Klopp’s final year as Liverpool’s manager and persisted following the hiring of Arne Slot as coach last summer.
Sources have indicated that the negotiations between Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool, managed by sporting director Richard Hughes, were friendly and productive, with the player being offered a noteworthy salary increase. However, Liverpool recognized earlier this spring that Alexander-Arnold wouldn’t agree to a new deal, and the player informed Slot of his intention to leave last month.
“I have plenty I wish to express,” Alexander-Arnold remarked. “But the key message is an immense thank you to [the supporters]. You have been with me since the beginning, providing support and encouragement throughout.
“I have always appreciated the backing, the love, and everything you have done for me, it has never gone unnoticed. I have cherished every moment and hope that you feel I have returned that love and given my all to the club.
“My only wish is that we can continue to win games, and that surrounding this decision doesn’t overshadow what we’ve accomplished this season. It has truly been a remarkable season, and it has been fantastic to be a part of it. I hope everyone can focus on celebrating what the rest of the team has achieved rather than dwelling on this news for too long.”