Liverpool already knows how much Alexander-Arnold is asking to stay with the squad

Trent Alexander-Arnold's future at Liverpool has become a focal point of attention as his contract nears its expiration.

The English full-back, widely regarded as one of the best in his position globally, is reportedly seeking a significant pay rise to remain at Anfield. According to The Sun, Alexander-Arnold is demanding a new deal worth €22 million per season, a figure that would elevate him to one of the club’s top earners.

At 26 years old, Alexander-Arnold has become a vital figure in Liverpool’s resurgence over recent years. Known for his exceptional attacking contributions, pinpoint crosses, and dead-ball expertise, the right-back has redefined the role, often operating almost as an auxiliary midfielder. His ability to dictate play from deep, coupled with his defensive improvements, has made him indispensable in Jurgen Klopp’s former system and now in the early stages of Arne Slot’s tenure.

If Liverpool agrees to the proposed terms, Alexander-Arnold would join the likes of Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk as one of the highest-paid players at the club. Given his age and status, Liverpool face a crucial decision in their ongoing squad-building project. As Slot looks to usher in a new era following Klopp's departure, retaining key players like Alexander-Arnold could be pivotal to ensuring the club remains competitive both domestically and in Europe.

The reported salary demand, approximately €22 million annually, reflects Alexander-Arnold's stature not only at Liverpool but also in the broader footballing world. His influence extends beyond his contributions on the pitch; he is seen as a leader, a product of Liverpool’s academy system, and an embodiment of the club’s values. Since making his senior debut in 2016, Alexander-Arnold has developed into one of Liverpool's most recognizable figures and an essential part of their recent success, including a Premier League title, a Champions League trophy, and several domestic cup wins.

However, securing Alexander-Arnold’s future is not a straightforward task, as external interest continues to build. Reports linking the full-back to Real Madrid have intensified over recent months, with the Spanish giants reportedly monitoring his situation closely. Real Madrid, known for targeting elite-level talent, view Alexander-Arnold as a natural fit for their squad, especially as they look to reinforce their defensive options while maintaining their attacking edge. With players like Dani Carvajal approaching the latter stages of their careers, Alexander-Arnold represents an ideal successor, combining youth, experience, and technical ability.

Real Madrid’s interest may put added pressure on Liverpool to act decisively. Losing a player of Alexander-Arnold’s caliber, particularly one who has been developed through the club’s youth academy, would not only weaken the squad but also send a discouraging message to the fanbase. Liverpool fans view Alexander-Arnold as more than just a player; he is a local lad who has grown into a global star while wearing the iconic red shirt. His departure, should it happen, could be seen as a failure to secure the future of a homegrown talent and a cornerstone of the team.

Financially, Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are known for their careful and sustainable approach to wage structures. While they have shown a willingness to reward top-performing players, committing to Alexander-Arnold’s reported demands would require a significant financial commitment. Such a decision would have wider implications for the club’s wage hierarchy, potentially prompting other star players to seek improved contracts as well.

From a sporting perspective, Liverpool can ill-afford to lose a player of Alexander-Arnold’s quality and versatility. Under Arne Slot’s leadership, the club appears poised to remain a dominant force in the Premier League and European competitions. Liverpool currently lead the Premier League and have shown strong form in the Champions League group stage, a testament to the depth and quality of their squad. Alexander-Arnold has been instrumental in their success, regularly contributing with goals, assists, and creative play from deep positions.

Moreover, Alexander-Arnold’s role has evolved significantly in recent seasons. While still nominally a right-back, he has often been deployed in more advanced, central positions to exploit his vision and passing range. This tactical flexibility has added another layer to Liverpool’s attack and made Alexander-Arnold one of the most dynamic players in world football. It also highlights his value to any team seeking a playmaker who can dictate the tempo of matches from various areas on the pitch.

For Liverpool supporters, Alexander-Arnold’s potential departure would be hard to accept. The 26-year-old, who grew up in the city and has been part of Liverpool’s academy since the age of six, has often spoken about his love for the club and desire to win more trophies at Anfield. His journey from a promising academy prospect to one of football’s brightest stars is a source of immense pride for Liverpool fans, who hope to see him remain at the club for the prime years of his career.

As negotiations continue, Liverpool’s management must weigh the risks of losing a player of Alexander-Arnold’s caliber against the financial implications of meeting his demands. Real Madrid’s interest only complicates matters further, providing a potential escape route for the player if an agreement cannot be reached.

For now, Liverpool fans can only hope that Alexander-Arnold’s love for the club and the team’s current success will be enough to convince him to stay. However, with the stakes this high, the next few weeks could prove decisive in determining whether the local hero remains at Anfield or embarks on a new chapter elsewhere.

Should Liverpool ultimately meet his demands, it would not only solidify Alexander-Arnold’s status as one of the top earners at the club but also reaffirm Liverpool’s commitment to retaining their world-class talent. In an era where loyalty in football is increasingly rare, the club’s decision will send a clear signal about their ambitions for the future and their desire to remain at the top of world football.