With Trent Alexander-Arnold reportedly unwilling to sign a contract extension at Liverpool, the defender looks set for a January move so that the Reds can cash in on him before the expiration of his contract.
Having been at the club's academy since the age of six, a move for Trent would be groundbreaking. PSG and Real Madrid are currently the two favourites to secure the defender's signature, as there are no doubts over his willingness to sign for one of Europe's elite outfits. We take a look at how he would fit in at either club and what it would mean for each team looking to sign him.
Real Madrid – 4/1
Los Blancos are currently the frontrunners to entice Trent away from Merseyside, with bookies pricing them at 4/1. Trent would be a perfect fit for Real Madrid, as they are currently undergoing somewhat of a crisis in the right-back position. Dani Carvajal confirmed last month that he would require surgery for a knee injury sustained in the club's 2-0 win 0ver Villarreal, leaving Lucas Vazquez to fill in at right-wingback for the time being. This is far from ideal, as Vazquez is primarily a winger.
With Carvajal also now 32 years old, it begs the question of whether this injury will see the end of his career at the Bernabeu. A replacement is needed in response to the veteran fullback's injury, and Trent could be the perfect man for the job.
Madrid possess a plethora of fast and agile players, such as Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, who could duly capitalise from Trent's expert delivery. Curving ball in behind and defence-splitting passes have always been a trademark of the defender's game, and this could be the tool needed to truly unleash Kylian Mbappe's full potential in Spain.
The forward has had a slightly disappointing start to his career in Madrid, but a playmaking and progressive fullback could really allow the Frenchman to get back to his best.
Paris Saint-Germain – 25/1
Surprise outsiders for Trent's signature, PSG have emerged as potential suitors for the defender in the last few days. Things have not gone to plan for the club in recent years, as they have still failed to secure a European trophy, despite previously possessing one of Europe's most feared attacking trios in Neymar, Messi and Mbappe.
However, as all three have left the club without real replacements, Luis Enrique is instead looking to bolster his defensive ranks by finalising a move for Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Similarly to Madrid, PSG are facing a crisis at right-back, with their only two options being Achraf Hakimi and 18-year-old Yoram Zague. Hakimi has typically been underwhelming at PSG, often calling out the management for a lack of tactical vision and stating that he is being forced to play in a system which does not complement his attributes.
The main issue for PSG has often been a lack of cohesion between the full-back and winger. This is a hole which Trent would be more than capable of filling.
Our Prediction
Despite the potential competition from PSG, we agree it is much more likely that Trent will be heading to Madrid. There have been multiple rumours of Los Blancos' interest in the player in recent seasons, and his refusal to sign a new deal at Liverpool means that his chance to switch allegiance to the Spanish giants may have finally arrived.
The introduction of a player of Trent's calibre to an already outstanding team would only be good news for Carlo Ancelotti's side, and would greatly increase the team's chances of adding yet another Champions League trophy to their overflowing cabinet.
Lifelong Ipswich Town supporter who recently graduated from Durham University in French and German. Have developed a passion for European football based on my links abroad and am an avid supporter of Werder Bremen and Auxerre. Joined the MFT team in October 2024 and looking to take my first steps into the world of football journalism.
