Real Madrid is "close" to Trent Alexander-Arnold

The 26-year-old England international is out of contract at the end of the season, along with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. However, while Salah and van Dijk are likely to remain at Anfield, Alexander-Arnold could leave Liverpool in the January transfer window.

AS reports that the deal is 90% complete, with Alexander-Arnold almost certain to join Real Madrid. Contract terms have been agreed, with only the official signature required to complete the deal. According to the report, the key milestone will be January 1, when Alexander-Arnold can officially move to the Bernabeu.

Dani Carvajal's long-term injury and the uncertainty over Lucas Vazquez's condition have led Real Madrid to act immediately, rather than wait until the summer to sign Alexander-Arnold for free. Adding a right-back of Alexander-Arnold's quality is essential to bolster the Royal team's squad, especially in the defensive position.

As for Liverpool, the Premier League leaders are said to be targeting Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong as a direct replacement for Alexander-Arnold. Frimpong has attracted attention with his impressive form and would be a potential option for Liverpool in case they lose Alexander-Arnold.

If the deal goes through, Trent Alexander-Arnold will be one of the most talked about signings of the January transfer window. The move would be a huge boost for both Real Madrid and Liverpool, with the Spanish side strengthening their right-back options while Liverpool look to replace a key player.