Real Madrid ready to pay transfer fee for Trent Alexander-Arnold despite expiring contract

Real Madrid are reportedly ready to pay a transfer fee to Liverpool to secure the signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold, even though his contract is set to expire this summer. The talented right-back is Los Blancos' top transfer target for the 2025-2026 season, and although it was initially expected that he would join Madrid on a free transfer after his current contract ends on June 30, new reports suggest that the Spanish giants may move earlier.

'Trent Alexander-Arnold.'
Getty Images Sport 

According to The Sun, Real Madrid are considering making a move for Alexander-Arnold in early June, ahead of the start of the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup. The tournament, set to begin on June 15, will see Carlo Ancelotti's squad compete in the U.S., and the club is eager to finalize Alexander-Arnold’s transfer before his contract with Liverpool officially ends. The reigning La Liga champions are even willing to pay a small transfer fee to the Reds to secure his services days before his deal expires, with their opening match in the tournament against Al-Hilal scheduled for June 18.

Meanwhile, Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot has not ruled out the possibility of persuading Alexander-Arnold to stay at Anfield, offering a new contract to the English defender. However, Slot has also identified Conor Bradley, another promising academy graduate, as a potential long-term replacement for the star full-back.

Liverpool will be back in Premier League action this Saturday when they face Southampton at Anfield, with Alexander-Arnold's future likely to remain a topic of intense speculation as the summer transfer window approaches.

MORE FROM SPORT CRAVE

Kylian Mbappe to Arsenal? Former France International Says Premier League Move Cannot Be Ruled Out

The Rise of Umar 'Mai Yaki' Muhammed: A Young Basketballer’s Journey of Passion and Ambition

Manchester City Agree Deal to Sign Arsenal Midfield Prospect Mishel Nduka

‎Roma Step Up Alejandro Garnacho and Crysencio Summerville Chase Ahead of New Season

‎Chelsea Complete £117m Morgan Rogers Deal as Blues Hijack Arsenal Transfer Pursuit

‎Can England Win the 2026 World Cup? Defence Remains the Biggest Question

Marcus Rashford to Liverpool? David James Backs Shock Premier League Transfer Idea

What Was Thomas Tuchel Thinking?! England’s World Cup Final Dream Ends After Costly Tactical Decisions

Giannis Antetokounmpo Traded to Miami Heat in Blockbuster Deal as Bucks Begin Rebuild

Pep Guardiola Net Worth in 2026: Salary, Career Earnings, Manchester City Success and Coaching Legacy