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Trent Alexander-Arnold is said to have already agreed to join Real Madrid(Image: Getty Images)

Wayne Rooney says he 'wouldn't be surprised' to see Trent Alexander-Arnold change his mind over a proposed transfer to Real Madrid, despite speculation that the right-back's move from Liverpool to the Spanish capital at the end of the season has already been agreed.

The England star, 26, has been strongly linked with a move to Spain for months after running down his contract and, after being free to speak with overseas clubs since January, it's now believed that a deal for Alexander-Arnold to swap Anfield for the Bernabeu in the summer transfer window is all but done.

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The news has not down well with the majority of Liverpool fans, particularly as Alexander-Arnold and his team-mates are on the cusp of winning the Premier League title.

But Rooney, citing his own experiences, says that a lot can change before a contract is officially signed - and that Alexander-Arnold could yet choose to stay with the Reds.

Writing in his BBC Sport column, the Manchester United legend said: “Alexander-Arnold has been an excellent servant to the club, so you can't begrudge him wanting to try something new.

It would not just be a shame for Liverpool fans if he left because you want to see the best players in the Premier League but, if he does go to Real, I wish him well.

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“Still, as I found out myself, just because there are talks over a transfer does not mean it will happen.

It is well known that some United fans protested outside my house when they thought I was going to leave in 2010, but I'd agreed my new contract by then.

“Alexander-Arnold has not signed anything with Real yet and it would not surprise me if, even after all this speculation, he ends up staying at Anfield after all.

A lot can happen before a contract is signed - as I know from experience.”

Wayne Rooney thinks the Liverpool star could still decide to stay at Anfield(Image: BBC Sport)

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Plenty of theories have emerged since the news broke that an agreement between Alexander-Arnold and Real was almost done.

But Rooney thinks the opportunity to pursue a new challenge overseas with Real Madrid is the main appeal for Alexander-Arnold rather than trophies.

“He has been at Liverpool for almost 20 years - since he was six - but the reality is that most players move at some point - that's why there are so few one-club men like Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher,” Rooney said after pointing out that Alexander-Arnold has 'already won everything there is to win' with his boyhood club.

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“I would not blame Alexander-Arnold for wanting to do something a little bit different - like a fresh challenge in a new country - Spain would be a really good move for him.”

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