Transfer: Liverpool stand firm on Alexander-Arnold as Real Madrid cool interest
Spanish giants Real Madrid have reportedly cooled interest in negotiation for Liverpool forward Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The quietness comes after Liverpool made it abundantly clear that they intend to retain their academy product through the winter transfer window.
According to reports from Fichajes in Spain, Real Madrid’s pursuit of the 26-year-old right-back has hit a substantial roadblock due to Liverpool’s firm stance against selling Alexander-Arnold in January.
Alexander-Arnold, whose contract with Liverpool is set to expire at the end of the current season, has been a vital player for the Reds, known for his exceptional playmaking from the right-back position.
His potential departure has been a hot topic, especially with Real Madrid expressing interest in securing his services either in January or as a free agent in the summer.
Meanwhile, in the event that Alexander-Arnold leaves Anfield, Liverpool have reportedly identified his potential replacement.
El Nacional from Spain reports that Liverpool manager Arne Slot has his sights set on Barcelona’s Jules Kounde as the ideal candidate to fill the void left by Alexander-Arnold.
Kounde, who has shown versatility by playing both as a right-back and a centre-back for Barcelona, could be the strategic addition Liverpool needs to maintain their defensive solidity and tactical flexibility.