Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images

James Pearce has provided an interesting update on Trent Alexander-Arnold amid the frustrating contract saga that has been allowed to drag on.

As Liverpool’s 2024/25 season hurtles toward a potential Premier League title under Arne Slot, the simmering uncertainty around the 26-year-old’s future has become an unwelcome subplot for supporters.

While captain Virgil van Dijk and talisman Mohamed Salah also approach the final months of their contracts, it is the homegrown right-back whose departure seems to be the most likely result.

The endless speculation has tested the patience of the Anfield faithful.

While Slot’s side tops the league, the unresolved futures of three key players loom over the campaign.

Social media has been buzzing with exasperation ever since the vice-captain’s future came in jeopardy.

It is common practice for clubs to give free agent signing on fees and bonuses as a way to sweeten and even close the deal.

But even aside from that, reliable reports have suggested that Alexander-Arnold could earn £8 million to £10 million net a season, which is around £400,000-a-week.

Multiple reports out of Spain, including from Cadena SER and Marca, assert that Real Madrid now treat Alexander-Arnold’s signing as a “certainty,” with a four-year contract agreed in principle.

Now James Pearce has provided his slant on the matter, revealing that those close to the 26-year-old still maintain there has not been a final decision.

“The biggest question mark is around Alexander-Arnold,” the Athletic reporter told GIVEMESPORT’s Market Madness podcast.

“Those close to him say there hasn’t been a final decision yet but if you speak to people in Spain Madrid are very confident he will end up there come the summer.”

Nevertheless, he at least had some positive news on Mohamed Salah and Van Dijk – with the Merseyside journalist believing both will stay put:

“I’m still confident that Van Dijk will stay put.

I think he’s been by far and away the best centre-half in European football this season,” he explained.

“It’s not only what he gives you on the pitch but he is that ideal role model, leader, talisman in terms of the way he conducts himself off the pitch as well.”

“With Salah we know there is strong interest from Saudi Pro League.”

“I think that will come down to a straight choice from him?

Does he want to stay at Liverpool and keep writing the record books or does he want to go to Saudi?”

“I don’t think he’s ready to walk away from top level football.”

Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone