Real Madrid are setting their transfer sights on two of Europe’s brightest young stars as they look to strengthen their squad for the 2024-25 season. According to the latest reports, Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold and AC Milan forward Rafael Leão have emerged as top targets for the Spanish giants.
Alexander-Arnold Wants Madrid Move
Spanish newspaper Marca made a bold claim on their Saturday front page, reporting that Trent Alexander-Arnold has told Liverpool he wants to play for Real Madrid next season. The 24-year-old England international is out of contract in June 2024 and negotiations over a new deal at Anfield have apparently stalled.
Marca states that a January move has been ruled out, but Alexander-Arnold could sign a pre-contract agreement with Madrid as early as January 1st. Convincing Liverpool to part with one of their star players mid-season would be a tall order, even for a club of Real’s stature and resources.
Alexander-Arnold has established himself as one of the world’s best attacking full-backs in recent years. His creativity and crossing ability would provide a new dimension to Real Madrid’s play, offering an alternative to the aging Dani Carvajal at right-back. The Englishman’s close friendship with Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham could also help swing the deal.
Reds Likely to Play Hardball
However, extracting Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool will be no easy task. The defender is a local lad and has been with the Reds since the age of six. He’s a vital cog in Jürgen Klopp’s system and the club will be desperate to agree fresh terms, even if his current deal has entered its final 18 months.
“I can’t see Liverpool letting Trent go without a fight, even if his contract is running down. He’s too important. But money talks and every player has his price. If Madrid make a huge offer, it could turn his head.”
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher
Leão Also on Real’s Radar
Meanwhile, Marca also reports that Real Madrid are considering a summer move for AC Milan and Portugal forward Rafael Leão. The 23-year-old was one of the stars of the 2022 World Cup and has been in scintillating form for his club this season.
Leão primarily operates as a left winger but can also play through the middle as a striker. His pace, dribbling ability and eye for goal have seen him linked with many of Europe’s top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. But Madrid appear to have moved ahead in the race for his signature.
Signing Leão would add yet more firepower to a Real Madrid attack already boasting the likes of Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo. However, there are a few potential stumbling blocks to any deal.
- Leão’s€85 million release clause – While not insurmountable for Real, it’s still a significant amount that would eat up a large chunk of their transfer budget.
- Milan’s reluctance to sell – The Italian champions are under no pressure to cash in on their prized asset and have Leão under contract until 2028.
- Competition for his signature – Real are unlikely to be the only club in for Leão if he becomes available. A bidding war could ensue.
Vinicius Extension a Priority
While the Alexander-Arnold and Leão stories have dominated headlines, Real Madrid still have important squad planning beyond their top targets. Extending Vinicius Junior’s contract is a major priority for the club.
The Brazilian winger has developed into one of Madrid’s key players and his current deal expires in 2027. Diario AS reports that Real want to secure Vinicius’ long-term future and are preparing a big renewal offer for next summer.
“Vinicius is the present and future of Real Madrid. Keeping him happy and motivated is essential, so it’s no surprise they want to extend his contract. He could be their franchise player for the next decade.”
South American football expert Tim Vickery
An Exciting Transfer Window Awaits
Real Madrid are rarely quiet when the transfer window opens and 2024 looks set to be no different. With moves for Alexander-Arnold and Leão on the cards, plus a potential Vinicius renewal, expect the Spanish champions to be one of the most active clubs in the market.
As always, their pulling power and financial might means they will likely get their top targets. But the sagas of Alexander-Arnold and Leão could dominate the headlines for months to come as Real Madrid launch their charm offensives.
One thing is certain – with Real Madrid circling, Liverpool and Milan face a massive battle to keep hold of two of their brightest stars. The football world awaits with bated breath to see how these transfer stories unfold.
