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Even as a treble begins to look like a genuine possibility in Arne Slot's first campaign, the future of three of his key players remains in serious doubt — and a Real Madrid transfer policy could influence where Trent Alexander-Arnold ends up.

Of the three, his situation appears most grave, in the sense that a very clear alternative to re-signing at Liverpool has made itself known: Real Madrid.

As it happens, Alexander-Arnold has also probably been the least integral of the trio to Slot's early success, although his age and quality would still make a free transfer departure a bitter blow.



Alexander-Arnold has won everything at Liverpool, and a move to the Spanish capital would all but guarantee some more success in a new footballing culture, not to mention a link-up with close friend Jude Bellingham.

From Real Madrid's perspective, the draw of a transfer is even more clear.

The opportunity to sign him on a free transfer, at a time when strengthening in his position is high on the agenda, makes complete sense for Carlo Ancelotti's side.

Concerningly for Liverpool, it also apparently fits into a new transfer policy instigated at Real Madrid.

Even so, Real Madrid has clearly made the calculation that this is still a highly cost-efficient way of securing top stars.

For its part, Liverpool has not given up on being the one to buck the trend, convincing Alexander-Arnold that his future involves taking over the captaincy at Anfield and becoming an all-time great

But the new transfer approach at Real Madrid will ensure its approaches become more insistent than ever as the summer draws closer, so Slot may have to strap in for more uncertainty as the season approaches its climax.