Trent Alexander-Arnold has reportedly informed Liverpool of his intention to leave the club and join Real Madrid.

Under the leadership of manager Arne Slot, Liverpool has started the season in remarkable form, topping both the Premier League and Champions League group stage.

Despite this success, uncertainty looms over the futures of three key players—Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk—whose contracts are set to expire at the end of the season.

As reported by Spanish outlet Marca, the 26-year-old Alexander-Arnold has expressed his desire to depart his boyhood club and join Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid. From January 1, the England international will be free to negotiate with other teams.

Real Madrid is reportedly prepared to initiate talks during the January transfer window. However, Liverpool would prefer to let Alexander-Arnold leave as a free agent in the summer rather than sell him mid-season. One of the driving factors behind his decision is the chance to reunite with close friend and England teammate Jude Bellingham at the Spanish club.

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has cautioned that leaving on a free transfer could tarnish Alexander-Arnold’s legacy at Anfield.

“If he stays, he’ll be remembered as one of Liverpool’s greatest players, not far behind Steven Gerrard,” Carragher said.

“But if he leaves, especially on a free, his legacy won’t be the same. Fans will also be frustrated about losing him without any financial return to fund a replacement.”

Carragher suggested that Alexander-Arnold consider signing a new contract with a reasonable buyout clause to allow for a smoother departure in the future.

This season, Alexander-Arnold has featured in 15 of Liverpool’s 18 Premier League games, contributing four assists.