Liverpool explore January loan move for out-of-favour Trent Alexander-Arnold

Liverpool have opened discussions with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s representatives about bringing the former defender back to Anfield during the January transfer window, according to Spanish radio station SER Deportivos.

The Premier League club are considering a loan deal for the England right-back, who has struggled for regular first-team football since moving to Real Madrid. He has started only four of the 13 matches available to him and is now reportedly third choice in his position.

Federico Valverde has been preferred at right-back by Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, while Netherlands international Denzel Dumfries has also moved ahead of Alexander-Arnold after recently joining the Spanish club.

Mourinho selected Valverde at right-back for Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona, underlining Alexander-Arnold’s reduced standing in the Portuguese manager’s plans despite the expectations surrounding his move to the Bernabeu.

Alexander-Arnold, 28, has previously been linked with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City. However, sources close to the player have denied reports that he is seeking to leave Real Madrid.

His salary could prove a significant obstacle to any potential return to Liverpool. Alexander-Arnold earns about €16.7m per year, while his close relationship with fellow England international Jude Bellingham may also be a factor.

Reports indicate Real Madrid are unwilling to agree a deal that could affect Bellingham’s stability or development at the club, adding another possible complication to negotiations over Alexander-Arnold’s future.

Liverpool are monitoring the situation because of problems at right-back. Conor Bradley is returning from knee surgery, while Jeremie Frimpong is sidelined with a muscle injury.

The club are therefore assessing the possibility of re-signing Alexander-Arnold, who left Anfield in controversial circumstances. Any move would depend on Liverpool and Real Madrid reaching an agreement over the structure of a loan and the player’s salary.

The fixture listings associated with the report show Racing Santander and Real Madrid in La Liga on 1 November 2026, while Liverpool and Arsenal are listed in the Premier League on the same date.