Real Madrid have long been linked with a move for Trent Alexander-Arnold, but it appears they are also preparing a backup plan should their pursuit of the Liverpool vice-captain not materialize. According to CaughtOffside, the 25-year-old right-back remains the Spanish club’s top priority for that position, with Madrid particularly encouraged by the fact that his contract at Liverpool will soon be entering its final nine months.
However, there is some potentially positive news for Liverpool. While Real Madrid are keen on securing Alexander-Arnold, they aren’t exclusively focused on him. Reports suggest that if their attempt to sign him falls through, they have identified Tottenham’s Pedro Porro as an alternative option. The Spanish defender has impressed in his time at Spurs, and despite the London club’s reluctance to lose him, there is a growing concern that he could be tempted to return to LaLiga. It’s been reported that Tottenham might consider selling Porro if a substantial offer—around €65 million (£54.6 million)—is put forward.
That said, Liverpool cannot afford to get complacent about Alexander-Arnold’s future. He remains Real Madrid’s primary target, and if Liverpool do not manage to tie him down to a new contract soon, he will be free to negotiate with other clubs, including Madrid, in just three months. This would be a significant blow to the Reds, as they aim to keep one of their most influential players at Anfield.
The Liverpool hierarchy, led by sporting director Richard Hughes, focused heavily on securing new signings over the summer transfer window. But now that the window has been closed for nearly five weeks, their attention has shifted toward resolving key contract extensions. Along with Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool will also be looking to secure the futures of other key players, including Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah. These negotiations are expected to be a priority for the club in the coming months.
Liverpool’s impressive start to the current season could play a crucial role in keeping Alexander-Arnold at the club. If the defender believes that Liverpool remain capable of challenging for and winning major trophies, it may be enough to convince him to stay. On the other hand, Porro might be more motivated to join Real Madrid, given that Tottenham are less likely to compete for major silverware, relying primarily on domestic competitions and the Europa League to end their trophy drought, which stretches back to 2008.
In the end, if Liverpool want to eliminate any uncertainty about losing Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid, they will need to resolve his contract situation as quickly as possible.
