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Trent Alexander-Arnold told Arne Slot he was leaving back in March(Image: PA)

Trent Alexander-Arnold informed Arne Slot at the club's Kirkby training ground back during the March international break that he had decided to leave Liverpool after setting his heart on a new challenge.

Alexander-Arnold, 26, confirmed on Monday morning that he will not be signing an extension to his contract, which expires in June.

The England star is expected to complete a free transfer to Real Madrid in the coming weeks after being pursued by the Spanish champions for months.

Speculation over Alexander-Arnold's future has been rife for months and there had been little in the way of updates on contract negotiations with the right-back.

But it has now emerged that all parties recognised Alexander-Arnold's mind was made up following a final meeting between the club's sporting director, Richard Hughes, and the player's representatives earlier this spring.

READ MORE:Liverpool dressing room's feelings on Trent Alexander-Arnold as exit confirmedREAD MORE:Arne Slot's stance on 'ridiculous' Trent Alexander-Arnold claim speaks volumes

It was then that Alexander-Arnold sought out Slot to explain his decision, citing his desire to experience a new challenge as the reason behind his exit.

He is now expected to put pen to paper on a long-term contract with Real Madrid in the coming weeks.

Extending Alexander-Arnold's contract has been at the forefront of Hughes' mind since he arrived at Anfield.

His first call, in fact, after agreeing to become the club's sporting director was to Alexander-Arnold's camp as he set about trying to get a deal done.

Article continues belowAlexander-Arnold's exit message comes just a week after Liverpool won the title(Image: Getty Images)

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But Alexander-Arnold's heart was set on a new challenge, even in spite of his love for Liverpool.

I hope they have felt that has been reciprocated and that I've given everything I could to the club.

Alexander-Arnold confirmed he will leave Liverpool in a heartfelt video(Image: Liverpool FC)

"I'm just hoping that we're able to carry on winning games, the noise [around my decision] doesn't take away from the fact of what we've achieved this season.

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"It has been an amazing season.