The football world is in turmoil following the latest rumors coming out of Spain, where Manchester City has set its sights on Trent Alexander-Arnold, the talented right-back who recently left Liverpool to join Real Madrid. According to sources close to the English club, Pep Guardiola’s team is willing to shell out €75 million to secure the 26-year-old, who is facing a difficult time at the Santiago Bernabéu. The unexpected statement from Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has added even more intrigue to this saga, leaving fans and analysts on tenterhooks.
Alexander-Arnold joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2025 as a free agent, following the end of his contract with Liverpool, although the club paid a compensation of approximately €10 million to ensure his participation in the Club World Cup. His signing was seen as a masterstroke, given his status as one of the best right-backs in the world, known for his vision, accurate long passes, and tactical versatility. However, the recovery of Dani Carvajal, the veteran Real Madrid captain, from a serious knee injury suffered in October 2024, has changed the dynamics of the team. The 33-year-old Carvajal has returned in surprising form, relegating Alexander-Arnold to a supporting role in new manager Xabi Alonso’s scheme.
The return of Carvajal, a mainstay at Real Madrid for over a decade, has been an unexpected obstacle for Alexander-Arnold. Despite his talent, the Englishman has struggled to adapt to Real Madrid’s style of play and the intense competition for the right-back spot. In recent matches, Carvajal has shown why he remains a key player, leaving Alexander-Arnold with limited minutes. This situation has sparked speculation about his future, with Manchester City seizing the opportunity to try to lure him to the Premier League. Pep Guardiola reportedly seizes Alexander-Arnold as the ideal replacement for Kyle Walker, who, at 35, is in the final stretch of his career.
Florentino Pérez’s statement has added a layer of controversy to this drama. In a recent press conference, the Real Madrid president surprised fans by saying: “Trent is a great talent, but Real Madrid will always prioritize those who demonstrate absolute commitment to the club.” These words have been interpreted by many as a veiled criticism of Alexander-Arnold’s adaptation, sparking speculation about a possible exit. Some media outlets suggest that Pérez could be open to negotiating the Englishman’s transfer, especially if Manchester City presents an offer as substantial as the aforementioned €75 million.
Manchester City’s interest is no coincidence. The English club, known for its ambition in the transfer market, is looking to strengthen its squad to remain a top contender in the Premier League and Champions League. Alexander-Arnold, with his experience in European competitions and his ability to influence both defense and attack, fits perfectly into Guardiola’s system. Furthermore, his friendship with Jude Bellingham, his former England teammate, could be a key factor in convincing him to join the City project.
On the other hand, the situation raises questions about Real Madrid’s planning. Alexander-Arnold’s arrival was part of a long-term strategy to rejuvenate the defense, but Carvajal’s rapid recovery and the performance of other players, such as Lucas Vázquez, have complicated matters. The possibility of Alexander-Arnold leaving the club just months after his arrival would be a severe blow to Real Madrid’s image, especially given the commotion surrounding his signing.
The upcoming transfer window promises to be decisive. If Manchester City makes their offer, Alexander-Arnold could return to England, where he’s already an idol after winning nine titles with Liverpool. Meanwhile, Real Madrid fans are waiting for clarity regarding the future of their new signing and Pérez’s intentions. What’s clear is that this story is far from over, and the football world will continue to follow each new chapter.
