Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to complete his transfer to Real Madrid on June 1. The Spanish giants have agreed to pay Liverpool a fee of $11.3 million to secure the England international`s services a month earlier than originally planned, ensuring he is available to play in the upcoming Club World Cup.
While Alexander-Arnold had previously agreed to join Madrid upon the expiration of his contract at Anfield, that date would have been July 1, by which time the summer tournament in the United States would be underway. To integrate the player earlier, Real Madrid engaged in negotiations with Liverpool this month and successfully agreed upon a significant fee to ensure their new right-back is available for Xabi Alonso`s initial competitive matches.
This sale represents a notable success for Liverpool`s finances, particularly as the club had largely resigned itself to losing the England star on a free transfer. Real Madrid`s initial proposal was reportedly under $1 million, making the final agreed fee of over half of the bid Liverpool rejected for Alexander-Arnold in December a significant improvement. Liverpool also benefits from saving a month`s worth of the player`s wages.
Liverpool is expected to seek a replacement for Alexander-Arnold, with reports suggesting they are targeting Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen in a potential $40 million deal. The club is also linked with Frimpong`s teammate Florian Wirtz and Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez.
Meanwhile, Alexander-Arnold`s arrival strengthens Real Madrid`s defensive options. He will be joined by Dean Huijsen, who is also scheduled to arrive from Bournemouth on June 1. Both new signings will have just over two weeks to familiarize themselves with their new teammates before Madrid`s tournament campaign commences against Al-Hilal on June 18.
