Trent Alexander-Arnold could leave unusual transfer gift behind for Liverpool replacement

An update has emerged on Trent Alexander-Arnold's future at Liverpool, and if it is to be the end he has the perfect gift to leave behind

Trent Alexander-Arnold's career with Liverpool has been a central topic throughout the 2024/25 campaign, only coming into a new particular focus in recent days based on what has been reported about a potential summer move to Real Madrid.

Out of contract in a number of months, the Liverpool vice captain would appear to be heading towards the exit door when his current deal expires. Rumour has it that Real Madrid, long reported to be interested in Alexander-Arnold, have stepped up their efforts in a bid to secure a free signing at the expense of Liverpool.

A Red of over two decades, Alexander-Arnold's exit would stand be disappointing for a number of Liverpool fans, yet if anything has been proven at Anfield in this club's 133-year history it is that the show always goes on - there are others willing to step up.

A lot has been made of the lack of financial return for Alexander-Arnold's exit, though the club have ensured they are in a strong position to act where necessary in the upcoming summer window.

What the 26-year-old would leave behind is his example. A six-year-old from West Derby who rose through the academy ranks, stepped up to the first team and one match shy of his 350th appearance has won every single major team honour for Liverpool.

His No.66, if vacant, can be the perfect symbol to pass on to the next great talent to emerge, whatever they position they play. The fact he has worn that number for the entirety of his senior career when a more prominent No.2, No.12, even the No.8 of club legends such as Steven Gerrard, have become available speaks volumes.

That doesn't just go for his number specifically, but any unorthodox digits a player happens to assume upon their graduation to Arne Slot's team. The message it sends is that any one young player's career is unique, at Liverpool they hand the opportunity to make that so with the rare combination of challenging at the very top.

Defenders, midfielders and forwards, the Reds have been touted to make wholesale changes throughout the upcoming window. Whether this happens or not is a different story.

As well as the potential addition of the now-famous No.66 to the free numbers list, there are several others that any Liverpool signings could have their eye on taking.

The number six, last worn by Thiago Alcantara, remains free, as does 12 which was vacated by Joe Gomez last year to take the No.2 shirt.

Traditionally used by goalkeepers, 13 is ready to take and it just so happens Giorgi Mamardashvili is arriving this summer.

Asides from those, of the more traditional squad numbers there is 15, 16, 23, 24 and 25 all up for grabs. Another notable one would be 32, which was last worn by cult hero Joel Matip before his departure at the end of last season.