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Steven Smith: Trent Alexander Arnold Will Sign for Real Madrid (Opinion)

The summer of 2024 represents the official return of the new Liverpool Sporting CEO, Michael Edwards, the unveiling of a new Sporting Director, Richard Hughes, the departure of the illustrious Jürgen Klopp, whilst we await the appointment of his replacement, Arne Slot. The club itself is in fine shape and after a solid 2023 summer of regeneration and signings, this current off season is one that can be navigated with purpose and a desire to reaffirm one of football’s greatest institutions at the head of Europe’s top table.

A stuttering period in the 2022/23 campaign meant that alterations were needed to a regression heavy Anfield squad, something that saw good business undertaken. This incoming transfer window is due to open on Friday 14th June, which is also the start date for the upcoming European Championships. Though many of the expectant fanbase will be hoping for marquee signings as soon as the recruitment door is ajar, I suspect more in-house work will be undertaken to ensure the current crop of world class individuals are tied down for the long term.

Which Players Will be Holding Contract Talks?

The trio of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander Arnold, all have current deals that are due to expire 30th June 2025. This final year of their existing contracts creates a huge situation for Edwards and co, who will be hoping to tie all three down to multi year extensions. It is the latter of the three and the current vice-captain of the team, TAA, that has had his future spoken about most in the close season. The confident and somewhat resurgent attacking fullback has finally become an international star, having spent years in the wilderness of the England sphere.

His migration to the midfield area and subsequent role of central playmaker has been quite sensational and he is expected to play a key role in Gareth Southgate’s team in Germany this month. After being given a license to roam by his former club manager, Jürgen Klopp, the 25-year-old has taken on an apparent sense of self-importance that could see him looking towards the bright lights of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. It is well documented that the former LFC academy graduate is good friends with Jude Bellingham and there will undoubtably be multiple pictures surfacing throughout this international tournament, that show the two in training and perhaps celebrating special moments on the pitch. I have little doubt that Trent sees his future with the Spanish giants and that he will one day leave to become a Galactico.

What is the Likely Outcome This Summer?

Despite my belief, I do sense that given Trent’s homegrown status and standing on Merseyside, the man that has limitless potential will extend his contract and stay with Arne Slot for at least the next two seasons. At that point, the 25-cap England star will be 27 years old, and in a firm position to leave his beloved reds whilst securing his club a huge fee. Unlike with the scenario surrounding Steve McManaman where that former player once left for Madrid on a Bosman free transfer, I cannot see a scenario where the current vice-captain would walk away for free, thereby leaving the club he supports unable to receive a fee by which to source an able-bodied replacement.

All of this is pure opinion and my own take on the situation, which means that there is every chance that last season could represent the last of Trent in the famous red shirt. Destiny points to a future away from Anfield, I just do not think we are quite there yet.

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