Liverpool, one of England’s football giants, is approaching a decisive season. While Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have extended their contracts, Trent Alexander-Arnold, the young right-back and academy graduate, appears set to leave Anfield.

With his contract expiring in June 2025, rumors suggest he will join Real Madrid as a free agent next summer. This has shocked Liverpool fans, who believe Arnold will regret this decision.

Salah and Van Dijk, Liverpool legends, have committed to new manager Arne Slot’s project by extending their contracts until 2027. Salah emphasized staying “on the pitch rather than off,” while Van Dijk stated, “Liverpool has always been my priority.”

However, Alexander-Arnold’s silence about his future, combined with a recent ankle injury, has fueled speculation about his departure.

Slot confirmed that Arnold has returned to group training after his injury but may start on the bench. He praised Arnold’s commitment but avoided discussing his contract renewal.

Alexander-Arnold joined Liverpool’s academy in 2004 at age six and has since become one of the world’s best right-backs. English media reports suggest Real Madrid has not yet finalized a deal, but informal talks are ongoing.

Jude Bellingham, Arnold’s close friend and Real Madrid star, is reportedly key in convincing him to join.

Meanwhile, Liverpool has shown intent to retain its core by extending Van Dijk’s contract. The emergence of Conor Bradley, another young right-back, may soften the blow of Arnold’s potential exit.

Van Dijk said: “Liverpool has always been in my mind. This is home for me and my family.” This contrasts sharply with Arnold’s uncertain future.

Despite Bradley’s emergence, Arnold’s departure would be a major challenge for Slot. Fans hope he will follow Salah and Van Dijk in committing to the club.

For now, all signs point to Arnold moving to Madrid, potentially making it one of the biggest transfers of summer 2025.