Homegrown hero Trent Alexander-Arnold appears poised to trade the familiar confines of Anfield for the dazzling allure of the Bernabeu as his contract nears its end.

As reports now suggest that this longstanding interest could culminate in a deal, Express Sport retraces the journey that led to the defender's decision – including the Englishman's tearful farewell to his German mentor, a devastating announcement, and the challenges he's faced under his current manager.

Emotional during Klopp's departure

Sky Sports Switzerland reports that Alexander-Arnold has made his decision and will reject any offers from Liverpool to renew his contract, opting instead for a high-profile move to Madrid.



The roots of this desire to spread his wings may trace back to another departure from Anfield.

I knew Trent Alexander-Arnold's future was decided when I saw telling moment in Liverpool tunnel	Graeme Souness issues strong Trent Alexander-Arnold verdict as Liverpool told ideal replacement	6 players could miss Liverpool vs Everton after Trent Alexander-Arnold blow and international scares

Jurgen Klopp's tenure at Liverpool saw him transform a struggling team into European titans, capped by a Champions League victory in 2019 and followed by an impressive haul of seven more trophies.

Yet, in January 2024, he shocked the football world with an announcement of his impending departure at the end of the season.

The final act of Klopp's managerial masterpiece was a 2-0 victory over Wolves last May, leaving a memorable mark, especially on Trent Alexander-Arnold, who struggled to hide his emotions, maybe foreshadowing how dissatisfied he'd become on Merseyside.

"I've been a big part and felt a big part of it.

We're fighting on all four fronts at that point for every trophy we could so you're expecting the good times to keep coming and coming and coming.

"So when he tells us the news and his decision, we have got to respect it obviously, but it's one of them no player wants to hear, and it was one that kind of shook the dressing room for a couple of hours."

Slot issues

The departure of Klopp clearly left Alexander-Arnold reeling, yet his successor, Slot, has seamlessly stepped into the managerial role at Anfield.

Yet, despite this adulation, the shift initiated by Klopp's departure seems to have left an indelible mark, and now the 'Scouser in our team' appears poised to pursue fresh pastures like the celebrated German coach.