Despite Real Madrid Struggles, Liverpool Move Away from Alexander-Arnold Reunion
In a fresh development that could disappoint some Liverpool supporters, a return to Anfield for Trent Alexander-Arnold does not appear to be among the club’s immediate plans, despite the team’s need to strengthen at right-back. With speculation linking the defender to his former club and challenges continuing during his spell at Real Madrid, the situation appears to be moving in a different direction, potentially creating new twists in the transfer market.
According to a report published by The Hard Tackle, citing Football Insider, Liverpool are not planning to pursue Alexander-Arnold at present, despite earlier reports suggesting the club could make an approach during the January transfer window. The reported stance comes as the England international continues to struggle to secure a regular starting role at Real Madrid, attracting interest from several English clubs.
Alexander-Arnold faces strong competition for the right-back position at Real Madrid following the reported summer arrival of Denzel Dumfries. The report states that manager José Mourinho has often preferred the Dutchman, while Alexander-Arnold started only three of Real Madrid’s first nine La Liga matches at the time of publication.
The English defender’s difficulties have extended beyond limited starts. According to the report, he did not play a single minute in Real Madrid’s previous three matches across all competitions. This follows the challenges he has faced since leaving Liverpool for the Spanish club in the summer of 2025, with injuries and the adjustment to a new environment affecting his ability to establish himself in the starting line-up.
However, Alexander-Arnold’s reduced playing time does not mean that his departure from Real Madrid is inevitable. It does raise questions about his future if the situation continues. The report notes that several English clubs are monitoring his circumstances, including Liverpool, who are already looking to strengthen their right-back position.
Earlier reports had suggested that Liverpool might attempt to bring back their former player in January. The latest report, however, states that the club is not planning to make an offer to Real Madrid at present. Although a return could make sense both emotionally and from a footballing perspective, Liverpool’s management appears more inclined to explore other names rather than reopen the case of a player who left Anfield for a new challenge in Spain.
As Liverpool consider alternatives, the report mentions Pierre Kalulu as a player linked with the club’s interest. Barcelona defender Jules Koundé has also been discussed in transfer reports as a possible option. Neither name should be treated as a confirmed signing, and the report does not establish that a final agreement or formal negotiations have been reached.
The report also discusses Ronald Araújo, whom Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has been using at right-back after his arrival on loan. Reports suggest Barcelona hope to turn that loan into a permanent transfer. This means Liverpool’s plans for the position could also be influenced by decisions concerning players already involved in the squad.
For Alexander-Arnold, regaining his place at Real Madrid remains the most important factor in determining his next move. Regular playing time could help him put speculation about his future to rest. If he continues to struggle for opportunities, however, he may have to consider other options should suitable offers emerge in a future transfer window.
Liverpool, meanwhile, appear unwilling to limit their right-back plans to a single candidate, even one who knows the club well and holds a special place among its supporters. With alternative names being discussed, the club’s position could evolve according to its needs and the transfer market. For now, though, the latest report does not point to an imminent move to bring Alexander-Arnold back to Anfield.
Alexander-Arnold’s future therefore remains open, with his immediate priority likely to be regaining his place at Real Madrid before considering whether a new challenge is necessary. Liverpool, on the other hand, appear more focused on exploring alternative right-back options rather than pursuing a reunion that is no longer a current priority according to the report.
