Weeks after English media reported that Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold is closer than ever to leaving Anfield, a fresh rumor claims that the Englishman could be at the centre of a January swap deal that could stun European football.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has reportedly rejected multiple Liverpool contract offers already, has started talking with at least two European giants, if not more, media reports said. However, Liverpool have reportedly decided to make the most of him financially before his current contract runs out.
25-year-old "TAA" has been heavily linked to Real Madrid for some time now. With Madrid captain Dani Carvajal ruled out for the rest of the season due to an ACL tear, it is the ideal time for the English star to make the move.
While earlier reports had claimed that he intends to join Real as a free transfer in the summer of 2025, Liverpool are now preparing to offer him to Real in January, a report claimed. Carvajal's injury and a tight league contest with a rejuvenated Barcelona under Hansi Flick may persuade Real to listen to what Liverpool have to say instead of waiting for Trent to become a free agent, reports suggest.
Liverpool wants Real Madrid midfielder because...
But what is Liverpool's catch? According to a report, Liverpool are likely to propose a swap deal with Real Madrid when the January window opens. For handing over Trent, the Premier League side will expect Real to give their French midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni in return.
ALSO READ | Injury-hit Real Madrid want Al-Nassr star and it is NOT Cristiano Ronaldo: Report
Tchouameni has been named among players likely to leave the Spanish capital soon. The youngster, who can play as a CDM, CM, and even as a CB at times, has not been very effective for Carlo Ancelotti's side. In the post-Toni Kroos era, Tchouameni is rated the lowest when compared to his teammates Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham. The 24-year-old, who joined Los Blancos in the summer of 2022, is valued at around £50 million.
Liverpool's interest in Tchouameni increased as a consequence of their failed effort to sign Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi. Arne Slot's team wanted him to be their new number 6 in the summer but the youngster ultimately turned down a transfer to Anfield. The Reds, who are Premier League leaders, are desperate for a new CDM and are ready to bid for Tchouameni, SportBible said in a report. So, Liverpool have decided to approach the Spanish giants with an offer that could provide the missing piece to their respective puzzles.
Will Real Madrid budge?
According to Spanish media Sports, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is convinced that he will have to rope in a new right-back in January, although he didn't want to spend in the market this season. An attacking right-back who is often used in the midfield by his national team, Trent is a product of the Liverpool academy.