Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold has found himself at the center of transfer speculation this summer, with persistent links to Real Madrid, Soccernet.football reports.
His teammate, Darwin Nunez, recently acknowledged these rumours in a light-hearted moment as the players returned for pre-season training.
Alexander-Arnold rejoined his Liverpool teammates after an extended break following the European Championship.
Returning to the AXA Training Centre on Sunday alongside five other players, Alexander-Arnold faced fresh questions about his future. With just one year remaining on his current contract, rumours have suggested he might be interested in a move to Real Madrid.
As the players made their way through the training facility, Nunez playfully addressed the speculation. “Y el Real Madrid? Chao!” he remarked to Alexander-Arnold, which translates to “and Real Madrid? Ciao [or bye]”.
The comment, made in the presence of Luis Diaz, elicited laughter from all three, with the moment captured on camera.
Despite the rumours, Liverpool remain confident that Alexander-Arnold will sign a new contract to extend his stay at Anfield.
When asked about his future, Alexander-Arnold responded, “My answer will probably be a bit boring. I think it’s the same answer you’ve heard in the last five, six, or seven years. That contract situation is not discussed at this place but just keep trying, I would say.”
Adding to the speculation, Alexander-Arnold recently spent part of his summer break with Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham. The two have developed a close friendship since Bellingham joined the England squad, leading to questions about whether Alexander-Arnold might follow his friend to Madrid.
Alexander-Arnold remains a key figure at Liverpool, having made 310 appearances, scored 19 goals, and provided 81 assists across all competitions.
He has played a crucial role in Liverpool’s success, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, Club World Cup, and Super Cup.