Alexander-Arnold to play for Real Madrid at Club World Cup

Real Madrid are close to signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, in time for the defender to travel to the United States for the Club World Cup, ESPN reports.

However, the two clubs need to agree on a compensation fee for the move to happy early.

This is because Alexander-Arnold’s contract with the Reds expires on June 30.

Liverpool have asked for a fee to release him, which would be around €1 million ($1.1m).

With the right back position covered by Alexander-Arnold, Madrid will also work to strengthen the centre of defence and left-back.

The club believes both positions need more quality and additional players, with the defence being the most vulnerable part of the team this season.

Álvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen are among the players who have been discussed, although the relatively high price tags for both – €60 million ($66.7m) and €50m ($55.6m) respectively – are a drawback and have seen Madrid look to keep other options open.

Alexander-Arnold to play for Real Madrid at Club World Cup