Trent Alexander-Arnold is in the final year of his current contract. Among the three Liverpool stars whose contracts are expiring, Alexander-Arnold is the most likely to renew. In contrast, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, who are seven and six years older respectively, may not receive substantial renewal offers due to the club's usual stance on aging players.
Alexander-Arnold, a local and lifelong Liverpool fan, represents the aspirations of every club supporter. Supported by the passionate fans at Anfield and across Merseyside, he has risen to become one of the world's top defenders.
Thus, when rumors of Real Madrid's interest surfaced, it was more concerning than surprising. However, there isn't a prevailing sense of concern about his departure, considering his strong connection to Liverpool.
The possibility of losing Salah and Van Dijk in a single summer gives Arne Slot limited time to preserve the solid foundations Jurgen Klopp established. Fortunately, a new contract may soon be finalized.
The ECHO reports that Alexander-Arnold is eager to work with Slot, having already engaged in preliminary discussions about the future. Richard Hughes, the new sporting director, has prioritized renewing the defender's contract for the summer. Van Dijk, who has occasionally hinted at uncertainty regarding his future, provides another incentive for Alexander-Arnold to sign a new contract. Despite expectations of his stay for the upcoming season, Van Dijk's recent remarks have cast a shadow of doubt.
After the Netherlands' disappointing semi-final loss to England in Euro 2024, a dejected Van Dijk stated, "I will carefully consider my desires at the club and international levels this summer. Then, we'll strive again, but first, we must recover from this defeat."
Van Dijk's significant contribution to Liverpool over his six years at Anfield is well-recognized. Having achieved nearly every accolade available under Klopp's guidance, he has the privilege of weighing his options as his contract nears its end.
It wouldn't be surprising to see Van Dijk depart next summer, as the centre-back will turn 34 then. Any move would mean relinquishing his captaincy. Trent Alexander-Arnold is poised to step up.
Already the vice-captain, Alexander-Arnold is the prime candidate to take over from Van Dijk, especially with Salah's expected departure after the season. Assuming the role, he would be the third Liverpudlian to wear the armband in the Premier League era, after Robbie Fowler and Steven Gerrard.
At 26, he would be well-placed to lead the nurturing of emerging talent and guide his senior teammates, embodying what it means to play for Liverpool.
Trent Alexander-Arnold's dedication has propelled him to become one of the world's top footballers with Liverpool. (Image: Joe Giddens/PA Wire)
With a collection that includes the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup, Alexander-Arnold's achievements are indisputable. Most of Klopp's squad from the successful league and European campaign will likely have moved on.
While the allure of the Bernabeu is strong, the honor of wearing the Liverpool armband could hold greater significance for Alexander-Arnold.
