In a move that has sent ripples across the footballing world, Manchester United have expressed a strong interest in acquiring Trent Alexander-Arnold and are reportedly preparing a substantial offer for the former Liverpool standout.
Alexander-Arnold exited Anfield in contentious circumstances, allowing his contract to run to its conclusion before making a transfer to the Spanish giants Real Madrid for a nominal fee of €10m (£8.7m) last season.
However, his inaugural season in La Liga has been fraught with challenges, primarily due to injury setbacks, which have sparked speculation about a potential return to the Premier League.
Despite this conjecture, notable transfer reporter Pete O’Rourke asserted last month that a transfer back to the English top flight is unlikely in the near future. “It would be a surprise to see him leave Madrid,” O’Rourke stated. “There has been much noise from Spain about Real Madrid considering letting Trent Alexander-Arnold depart, but I don’t believe that is accurate.”
O’Rourke further explained, “Real Madrid is currently undergoing significant changes, including managerial shifts with Alvaro Arbeloa at the helm. Whether he will stay long-term remains uncertain, which could mean another managerial change over the summer, potentially offering a fresh start for all players. Trent Alexander-Arnold, right now, is dedicated to proving his merit and succeeding in the Spanish capital.”
Nevertheless, United are unswerving in their pursuit and have been characterised as ‘especially active in the race’ for the 27-year-old, according to Spanish sources, which claim the Red Devils are poised to lodge an offer nearing €50m (£44m) to lure him from the Bernabeu.
His return to Anfield last November was met with derision from a segment of Liverpool supporters, leading to his being branded a ‘rat’. Thus, a switch to arch-rivals Manchester United is expected to provoke a strong reaction from the Liverpool faithful.
The prospect of such a move appearing slim, Real Madrid ‘maintains confidence in his potential’ and acknowledges that ‘his adaptation requires time’. The report elaborates that any change will only occur if the proposal is ‘irrefutable’, implying United must significantly bolster their bid if they are to secure his services.
In other Manchester United news, club icon Wayne Rooney recently offered insights on Alexander-Arnold’s areas requiring improvement to reach the pinnacle of his position globally. “Many teams will test him on the flanks during transitions,” Rooney noted. “His defensive skills need to match his offensive prowess. On the ball, he’s exceptional. However, off the ball, defensively, that’s where he has to show enhancements. If he can do that, there’s no doubt he’ll be the best full-back in the world.”