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Some Liverpool fans will still feel like Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving for Real Madrid is surreal.

The academy graduate’s storied 20-year association with Liverpool will conclude this summer after the 26-year-old confirmed his departure on Monday morning.

The right-back cited a desire for “a new challenge” as the driving force behind his exit, ending speculation over his future amid months of negotiations between the player and the Spanish giants.

Real Madrid aims to finalize the deal by July 2025, with a six-year contract reportedly in its final stages, though conflicting reports suggest a five-year agreement.

The move marks one of the most significant free-agent acquisitions in recent football history, with Madrid also seeking to secure Alexander-Arnold’s early arrival for the FIFA Club World Cup in June.

And according to chief Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol, the Spanish giants have accelerated plans to bring the 26-year-old with them to the CWC.

Taking to X, the reporter wrote:

“Real Madrid have approached Liverpool about signing Trent Alexander-Arnold early so he can play in the Club World Cup next month.”

“Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool contract expires on 30 June; Real Madrid’s opening CWC game is on 18 June against Al Hilal in Miami.

Real Madrid expected to follow up initial approach.”

“Clear they are determined to get the player for CWC because they contacted Liverpool so soon after he announced he would be leaving this summer.”

Real Madrid will need to reach an agreement with Liverpool if they want to secure Trent Alexander-Arnold’s early release from his contract.

This would likely involve compensating Liverpool for buying out the final month of his deal, which could be valued between £800,000 and £1 million.

It was previously reported that Los Blancos would only offer up to £500,000.

However, Liverpool is under no obligation to allow Alexander-Arnold to join another club before his contract officially ends on July 1, giving them full control over any negotiations.

There is every chance the Reds may ask for more on top of the final month of the deal to compensate further for the loss of the player.

The Sky journalist goes on to add:

“If Liverpool refuse to let Alexander-Arnold leave before his contract expires on 30 June, he could still play in the latter stages of the Club World Cup for Real Madrid.”

“Clubs playing in the CWC can use a special in-tournament window between 27 June to 3 July to register players.

He would miss Real Madrid’s group games in June – against Al Hilal (18/6)?

Pachuca (22/6) and Salzburg (27/6).”

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