Arne Slot DESPERATE to hold onto Trent Alexander-Arnold amid showdown talks

New Liverpool head coach Arne Slot must be at his persuasive best as the club plans vital showdown talks with one of its key players.

Amid speculation of an agreement being reached with Real Madrid for a free-transfer move in the summer of 2025, the potential departure of Alexander-Arnold has become a pressing issue for Liverpool.

Now, Slot, who is reportedly "desperate" to keep hold of Alexander-Arnold, as reported by Football Insider, plans to present his vision for the club's future to the defender in upcoming discussions.

This vision may include the possibility of becoming the team's captain should Virgil Van Dijk, who is also nearing the end of his contract, decide to leave in the near future.

A crucial year for Alexander-Arnold

Alexander-Arnold, 25, has just one year left on his contract, making this an important few months for the club as they look to secure the future of their star right-back.

The recent departure of Jurgen Klopp, a key figure in his development, has made his commitment to new terms uncertain.

And with Real Madrid now reportedly eyeing the England international as part of their next wave of Galactico signings, plus Alexander-Arnold’s close friendship with Jude Bellingham, the possibility of a departure is growing.

According to TodoFichajes, Alexander-Arnold has already agreed to join Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer of 2025.

The report suggests that Real Madrid attempted to negotiate a transfer this summer but decided against it due to Liverpool’s high asking price. Instead, they aim to replicate their successful strategy of acquiring top talents on free transfers, a method previously used to sign high-profile players like David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger and Kylian Mbappe.

Alexander-Arnold has himself fuelled this speculation with public statements that hint at his admiration for Real Madrid, plus his congratulations to Bellingham following Real Madrid’s recent Champions League victory.

A real blow

Losing Alexander-Arnold would be a severe blow to Liverpool's aspirations and would upset fans who would be loath to see their local-born hero depart, especially on a free.

The 25-year-old has been with Liverpool his entire career, rising through the academy ranks to join the senior team in 2016. Since then, he has been instrumental in the club’s success, helping to secure seven major trophies, including the 2018-19 Champions League and the 2019-20 Premier League.

Now, for the first time, doubts are creeping in that he will sign a new deal when, previously, it appeared to be a certainty.

This uncertainty is compounded by ongoing contract issues with other Liverpool superstars, Mohamed Salah and Virgil Van Dijk. Salah, the club’s top earner, recently turned 32, while Van Dijk, who will be 34 next summer, has hinted at a potential move away from Anfield.

However, despite these developments, Alexander-Arnold is not expected to leave Anfield this summer.