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Trent Alexander-Arnold has finally confirmed the worst kept secret in football and announced his intention to depart Liverpool when his contract expires this summer.

The right-back is now set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.

It's news that may not have surprised Liverpool supporters but has certainly left many upset at the prospect of seeing a local player depart for nothing.

And while Alexander-Arnold admitted he understands the fans' frustration, Liverpool will now face the prospect of planning for the future without a player who is widely considered the best in his position in world football.

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Our writers have their say:

Paul Gorst

To find out how Liverpool find themselves in a position where they will lose a boyhood fan and one of their greatest-ever academy graduates against their wishes, you have to go back to 2022 when owners Fenway Sports Group were gently kicking the tyres on a potential sale of the club.

But having previously admitted he wished to spend the entirety of his career with the Reds and emulate his hero, Steven Gerrard, by captaining the club, it is apparent that dreams change.

That is what will be toughest for supporters to stomach now the Liverpool vice-captain has confirmed he will be leaving at the end of his contract - that fulfilling such dreams at Anfield was no longer enough for him.

While it is no surprise to see Alexander-Arnold moving on, giving how the contract saga has unfolded, it is no surprise that the fanbase - who would give anything to have been in his position and win the biggest prizes for the Reds - aren't happy either.

Alexander-Arnold is a Liverpool legend.

But his legacy should still be that of a player whose talent helped Liverpool win every single honour imaginable and gave supporters the times of their lives.

Yes, it's frustrating that Liverpool will get nothing for him, but that is as much the club's fault in letting it get to that position as it is Alexander-Arnold's.