Liverpool's stance on Arnold clear despite Real Madrid risk

Liverpool have no intention of selling Trent Alexander-Arnold, despite efforts from Real Madrid to move for the England international.

Alexander-Arnold, 25, is one of three big names entering the final year of their Anfield deals. Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah also have contracts expiring at the end of the 2024-25 season, prompting speculation over all of their futures.

All three played a sigificant part in Liverpool's success under Jurgen Klopp. However, questions have been asked when it comes to whether they will need convincing to become part of the Reds' future under new manager Arne Slot.

Salah was the subject of interest from Saudi Arabia last summer, while fresh reports indicate Real Madrid are fans of Alexander-Arnold. However, new sporting director Richard Hughes indicated earlier in the summer that the club have no plans to sell and remain confident the Reds' stars are committed to the club.

“On contractual situations, I don’t think it would be fair for me to talk about these," Hughes said in his introductory press conference. "These are private matters between club and players.

“The only concern I and Arne have about situations is total commitment from the players to the cause for next season and we’re absolutely convinced that will be the case.”

Hughes' comments may provide encouragement to Liverpool fans in the face of reports from Bild that Alexander-Arnold is 'interested' in Madrid. The Champions League holders already have Alexander-Arnold's England team-mate Jude Bellingham in their squad, and appear to be looking for a long-term solution at right-back as Dani Carvajal gets on in years.

At the end of last season, Alexander-Arnold appeared to be looking ahead to life under Slot. Liverpool fell short of the title in Klopp's final season in charge, but integrated a new midfield over the course of the campaign, finishing third and winning the EFL Cup.

"It was a good season, built on last season, got better as a team, challenged for the title, took it far and we improved," the right-back said. "Any time you improve means that it's a good season. Take the positives and move forward and hopefully again next season."

While Liverpool have yet to add their first new signing of the Klopp era, some senior stars have departed. Joel Matip and Adrian have both moved on following the expiry of their contracts, while Thiago has retired after an injury-hit time at Anfield.

"I will always be willing to give back what I have been given and I am grateful for the time I have enjoyed it," the Spanish international said. "Thank you, football. And to all who accompanied me and made me a better player and person along the way. See you soon, Thiago."