Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold sent a pointed message during his celebration after scoring in Liverpool’s 4-1 victory over West Ham United on Sunday night. The 26-year-old made a “talking gesture” with his hand, seemingly addressing ongoing speculation about his potential move to Real Madrid.
Reports from Spanish outlets Marca and AS have suggested that Alexander-Arnold has already expressed a desire to join Real Madrid, with claims that a deal is almost finalized pending a signature. However, these assertions were contradicted by the Daily Mail, which stated that the player remains in contact only with Liverpool, and no agreement with Real Madrid has been reached.
The speculation comes as Alexander-Arnold’s contract with Liverpool is set to expire in the summer, putting his future with his boyhood club in question. Alongside him, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk also face the possibility of leaving on free transfers when their contracts end.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher weighed in on the situation, emphasising the importance of legacy for local players. “It is more than a football decision… Does he want to be seen how Steven Gerrard is seen? Or Steve McManaman? Steve went to Real Madrid and won a couple of European Cups, but he is not adored by Liverpool fans,” Carragher said.
Alexander-Arnold’s goal at the London Stadium—his first of the season under manager Arne Slot—capped off an impressive performance as Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table. Despite the ongoing transfer saga, the Reds remain firmly in control, sitting eight points ahead of second-place Nottingham Forest with a game in hand.
