Trent Alexander-Arnold (AP Photo/Jon Super) Real Madrid have secured the signing of Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold on a contract until 2031, with the Spanish club completing the transfer early to ensure his availability for the upcoming Club World Cup. The 26-year-old England international leaves Liverpool after winning the Premier League title in his final season.Alexander-Arnold departs his boyhood club where he made 352 appearances and achieved significant success, including the Champions League triumph in 2019 and the Premier League title in 2020.The right-back’s move coincides with former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso’s appointment as Real Madrid’s new head coach, replacing Carlo Ancelotti.Alexander-Arnold’s departure announcement initially drew negative reactions from some Liverpool supporters, who booed him in the penultimate match of the season. However, following interventions from club figures including former manager Jurgen Klopp and Mohamed Salah, fans celebrated him during the Premier League trophy presentation at Anfield.
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The defender joins Real Madrid during a challenging period, as the club failed to secure any major trophies this season. While known for occasional defensive lapses, Alexander-Arnold brings exceptional passing abilities and attacking prowess to the right flank.His arrival addresses Real Madrid’s right-back concerns, where Dani Carvajal’s long-term knee injury and Lucas Vazquez’s struggles have created a void.Alexander-Arnold could make his first appearance for Real Madrid in their Club World Cup opener against Al-Hilal from Saudi Arabia on June 18 in Miami.Quiz: Who’s that IPL player?The Spanish giants have also strengthened their defense by signing Spanish centre-back Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, reinforcing a backline that suffered numerous injuries throughout the season.The transfer marks the end of Alexander-Arnold’s long association with Liverpool, where he progressed from the academy to become one of the club’s most successful homegrown players.
