Real Madrid ‘close the door on January move for Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold’ after two failed bids

Real Madrid have reportedly given up on their pursuit of Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in the January transfer window, after failing in two separate bids to lure the right-back away from Anfield.

The Spanish giants have been tracking Alexander-Arnold for months, with manager Carlo Ancelotti eager to strengthen his squad amid defensive concerns. With first-choice right-back Dani Carvajal sidelined until the end of the season, Madrid saw the England international as an ideal reinforcement.

Despite their strong interest, Liverpool stood firm, rejecting both offers from the reigning European champions. The Merseyside club has no intention of parting ways with their homegrown talent midway through the season, especially with their title ambitions still very much alive.

According to Spanish outlet Marca, Madrid have now decided to abandon their pursuit—at least for now. While they remain admirers of Alexander-Arnold, they have opted against making a third bid before the January transfer deadline.

The 26-year-old, who has spent his entire professional career at Liverpool, is currently in the final 18 months of his contract. If he does not agree to a new deal with the club, he will be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs as early as January 2026.

Madrid were hopeful that Liverpool’s reluctance to let him leave for free might force them to accept a lucrative offer this month. However, Jurgen Klopp’s side has made it clear that Alexander-Arnold remains a crucial part of their long-term plans.

Ancelotti, who is aiming to guide Madrid to another La Liga and Champions League double, reportedly saw Alexander-Arnold as the perfect successor to Carvajal. The Spaniard, despite his vast experience, has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, prompting Madrid to search for a long-term replacement.

The club’s decision to pull out of the January race does not necessarily mean the saga is over. Madrid could reignite their interest in the summer, particularly if contract negotiations between Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool fail to progress.

Sources close to the player suggest that while he remains committed to Liverpool, he has yet to make a definitive decision about his future. The prospect of playing for Madrid, one of the biggest clubs in world football, is undoubtedly appealing.

For now, however, Liverpool fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Their vice-captain and one of the best right-backs in modern football will remain at Anfield for at least the remainder of the season.

This development also forces Madrid to explore alternative options in the market. While academy graduate Lucas Vázquez has filled in for Carvajal, the club is aware of the need for a more permanent solution in the right-back position.

Other names linked with Madrid include Bayern Munich’s Noussair Mazraoui and Chelsea’s Reece James. However, the latter’s long-term contract at Stamford Bridge and repeated injury struggles make him a less viable target.

Liverpool, on the other hand, will hope to convince Alexander-Arnold to extend his stay beyond 2025. The club is reportedly prepared to offer him a significant pay rise to reflect his status as one of their most influential players.

Alexander-Arnold himself has always spoken highly of his attachment to Liverpool, having risen through the ranks of the academy. However, with Madrid showing serious intent, a move to Spain could still be on the cards in the near future.

For now, Madrid’s focus shifts to the second half of the season, with Ancelotti determined to make do with his existing squad. Whether or not Alexander-Arnold eventually dons the famous white shirt remains to be seen, but this transfer battle is far from over.