England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract with Liverpool runs until June 2025, is due for renewal talks this summer.
More than reinforcements, there is an urgent need to conclude contracts with the current core squad, with talks also pending with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
Saudi Arabia are keen on Salah and Van Dijk, who are over 30 years old, while Real Madrid are tracking developments for the 25-year-old vice-captain.
This comes at a crucial time for Liverpool, as they are believed to be considering a free transfer deal next summer.
Former England defender Glen Johnson, who also played for Anfield during his playing days, said that while it would be difficult to turn down an approach from Real Madrid, a release without a transfer fee must be avoided at all costs.
“Madrid’s Madrid. Liverpool are going to be going through some uncertain times in the short-term, so if Real Madrid are at the table, it’s difficult for players to not go.”
“If he goes there, he’s likely to win the Champions League again, so I don’t think he could turn that down and Madrid would be crazy to not try and sign him. He could even sign a pre-contract with them from January onwards, but Liverpool can’t lose him for free. He’s way too good for that to happen and it would be ridiculous business for Liverpool to allow him to leave on a free transfer.”
“I’m sure Liverpool are trying to keep him, but as the clock’s ticking and if Real Madrid are interested in him, then it’s only going against Liverpool at this moment in time.”
Betfred