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Trent Alexander-Arnold’s imminent free transfer to Real Madrid has ignited a complex negotiation over his early release, as the Spanish giants aim to integrate him ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

The Liverpool vice-captain confirmed his emotional exit after 20 years at Anfield on Monday, citing a desire for “a new challenge” rather than financial motives, but his departure now hinges on a unique FIFA provision allowing pre-tournament squad reinforcements.

In a heartfelt social media statement, Alexander-Arnold revealed his decision to leave Liverpool, emphasizing his need to “push myself professionally” after achieving “every dream” at his boyhood club.

The 26-year-old, who joined Liverpool’s academy at age six, departs with 352 appearances, two Premier League titles, and a Champions League trophy.

His move to Madrid, while financially lucrative (€15 million annually before taxes), is driven by Ballon d’Or ambitions and the prestige of joining a club with 15 European Cups.

And it has now emerged that Real Madrid are actively trying to bring Alexander-Arnold’s transfer forward in time for the Club World Cup.

The Club World Cup runs from June 15 to July 13 in the U.S.

To comply, FIFA approved an “exceptional registration window” from June 1–10, permitting participating clubs to sign players before the tournament.

However, Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool contract expires on June 30, meaning Madrid must negotiate an early release to avoid him missing the group stage.

And it seems that the Spanish giants could do just that.

Ben Jacobs for GIVEMESPORT has reported that Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to join Real Madrid on a contract running until 2031, with Liverpool having been formally notified about the agreement.

However, the deal has not yet been signed, as the official start date of the contract is July 1.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid plans to engage Liverpool in discussions to try and secure Alexander-Arnold’s early release, allowing him to join their squad in time for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

Jacobs then explains that Madrid and Liverpool have not yet agreed on this fee, with the £500,000 being offered by Los Blancos deemed unacceptable:

“Real Madrid are prepared to pay over £500,000 in compensation in order to get Alexander-Arnold on June 1, allowing him a two-week build up in the United States as well, but Liverpool sources insist that number must be higher.”

“The Reds’ statement confirming Alexander-Arnold will leave specifically notes this will occur at the end of his contract on June 30, and this won’t change unless Real Madrid can agree a fee to have the right-back start ahead of the Club World Cup, which begins on June 14.”

While some fans criticized Alexander-Arnold’s free-agent exit, others acknowledged his right to seek new horizons after two decades of service.

Arne Slot now faces the daunting task of rebuilding around Conor Bradley, who’s poised to inherit the right-back role.

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