Ex-Liverpool star tells Trent Alexander-Arnold – ‘I’d go to Real Madrid in a heartbeat’

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future at Liverpool is increasingly uncertain as his contract at Anfield is set to expire this summer. With no official confirmation of a renewal, speculation about a potential move to Real Madrid is gaining momentum. The 26-year-old, who has spent his entire professional career at Liverpool, may have a tough decision to make in the coming months.

Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore has weighed in on the matter, offering a pragmatic perspective on Alexander-Arnold’s possible departure. Collymore, who played for the Reds between 1995 and 1997, has made it clear that he wouldn’t hesitate to swap Liverpool for the allure of Real Madrid.

Speaking exclusively to the ECHO in association with William Hill, Collymore acknowledged the deep emotional connection Alexander-Arnold has with Liverpool but also emphasized the unique opportunity that a move to the Spanish giants would present.

“I think Trent is a unique case because players move all the time, but leaving the club you support, the city you grew up in, and heading to Real Madrid feels different,” Collymore said. “However, if he wins the Premier League and Champions League double this season, I know Liverpool fans would be upset, but there’s only a finite amount of time to play football.”

The Liverpool vice-captain has been an integral part of the team since breaking into the senior squad under Jurgen Klopp. His contributions as an attacking right-back have revolutionized the role, and he has been instrumental in Liverpool’s recent success, including winning the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020.

Despite his importance to Liverpool, there has been no breakthrough in contract negotiations, leading to growing fears among fans that he could walk away as a free agent. The speculation linking him to Real Madrid is not surprising, given Los Blancos’ history of signing some of the best players in world football.

Collymore elaborated on why Real Madrid remains such an attractive destination for any footballer, regardless of their club loyalties. “Every player growing up wants to play for the big clubs—Liverpool, Manchester United, or in my case, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa,” he said. “But even back in the 80s, when leagues like La Liga and Serie A weren’t as widely broadcast, Real Madrid had a special aura.”

He continued, “You didn’t see them on TV much, except in European finals, and they were spoken about almost like something mythical. They’ve always had that magic, and now they arguably have the best stadium in the world, a team filled with world-class players, and a city that offers an incredible lifestyle.”

Collymore also pointed out that Real Madrid’s history in the Champions League makes them an even more attractive proposition. “They dominate Europe. They’ve won the Champions League more than anyone else, and they always seem to be competing at the highest level,” he added.

Liverpool fans have been vocal about their desire to see Alexander-Arnold remain at the club, with many hoping that he will eventually take the captain’s armband on a permanent basis. However, with no contract extension in sight, his departure remains a genuine possibility.

While some might view a move away as a betrayal, Collymore insists that it wouldn’t be unreasonable for Alexander-Arnold to seek a fresh challenge. “I understand why some Liverpool supporters would be disappointed, but it’s football,” he explained. “Even Steven Gerrard almost left for Chelsea. Careers are short, and players have to make the most of them.”

The former striker was then asked whether he himself would have ever left Liverpool for Real Madrid. His response was emphatic. “Oh, absolutely,” Collymore said. “I would have gone from Liverpool to Real Madrid, Villa to Real Madrid—without hesitation. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play for a club that oozes history, tradition, and success.”

If Real Madrid does make a formal approach for Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool will face a tough battle to keep hold of one of their most prized assets. Given their financial strength and footballing prestige, Madrid could offer the England international a contract that is difficult to refuse.

There is also the question of Liverpool’s long-term project under new manager Arne Slot. If the club can demonstrate ambition and continue to compete for major trophies, Alexander-Arnold may be more inclined to stay. However, if Madrid presents a compelling vision for his career, it could be a turning point in his decision-making process.

Ultimately, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether Alexander-Arnold remains at Anfield or embarks on a new adventure in Spain. Liverpool fans will be hoping for clarity sooner rather than later, but for now, speculation continues to swirl around one of the club’s biggest stars.

If he does make the switch, he would be following in the footsteps of other English players who have thrived in La Liga, such as David Beckham and Jude Bellingham. Whether Liverpool can convince him to stay remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Real Madrid’s interest isn’t going away anytime soon.