Former Liverpool defender John Arne Riise believes Trent Alexander-Arnold is likely to leave Anfield for Real Madrid when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The England international has yet to agree a new deal with Liverpool, fueling speculation over a potential move to the Spanish giants.
Softfootball understands Riise feels the uncertainty surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s future differs from the situations involving Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah.
Speaking to Amazon Prime, Riise praised the right-back’s unique qualities and described him as one of Liverpool’s finest talents.
There’s never been anyone like him in world football or at Liverpool,
Riise said.
He is exceptional. In modern football, you have to be good defensively and offensively, he is exceptionally good going forward with his passing and vision.
Riise acknowledged that Alexander-Arnold has spoken positively about Arne Slot’s impact since taking charge but believes the final decision rests on whether the defender wants a new challenge.
In his programme notes he mentioned he can see something building under Slot and it’s clear it’s going to be a good journey. Will it be with Trent long-term or not? These players keep giving different signals, whether they’re going to stay or go.
He added:
Based on what is said there, he will stay because he enjoys the football and Arne Slot has come in and changed him as a player, especially defensively. I think he’s happy, but it’s more about Trent himself and what he wants from his career. Does he need something new, or is he happy here? That is the big question.
Riise ultimately backed the defender to leave Merseyside, saying:
I think he will go.
