Liverpool handed Trent Alexander-Arnold blow as Real Madrid make decision on alternatives

Real Madrid has reportedly decided to pause its pursuit of alternative right-back targets in order to put its full focus on signing Trent Alexander-Arnold.

It's been known for some time that Madrid has identified the Liverpool defender as a top target ahead of next summer's transfer window, with the Bernabeu club keen to continue its record of signing high-profile free agents.

Madrid signed Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer earlier this year, and has also recruited Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba on similar deals in recent years. Alexander-Arnold is into the final eight months of his contract at Liverpool, and will be able to negotiate with foreign clubs from Jan. 1.

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AS reports that Alexander-Arnold remains Madrid's No.1 target, with Jeremie Frimpong and Pedro Porro identified as fall-back options. The report adds that Madrid's interest in Alexander-Arnold has intensified after Dani Carvajal sustained a season-ending knee injury last month.

Carvajal ruptured two ligaments as well as a tendon during a match between Madrid and Villarreal, heightening Madrid's need for a new right-back. It is claimed that Madrid will not look to sign Alexander-Arnold in January, with the Spanish club well aware of how difficult it is to prise key players away from top teams during winter transfer windows.

It was reported by Spanish outlet Sport in October that Madrid could look to reach an agreement for Alexander-Arnold in Janaury. Speaking on the Walk On podcast, however, Liverpool expert James Pearce described that claim as "absolute nonsense", and comments made by Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti last month tallied with Pearce's verdict.

Ancelotti said: “We have Lucas Vazquez, we trust him. Then there’s Eder Militao. I see him well as a right back, yes. I have not asked for new signings in January as last year we managed the situation well. Signing a player who will be good for Real Madrid is not easy. At the moment we are not thinking about it (signing a player in January).”

The AS report adds that the prospect of joining Madrid appeals to Alexander-Arnold, while there is said to be pessimism at Liverpool over the club's chances of keeping the 26-year-old.

There has been no public indication either way from Alexander-Arnold as to whether he wants to stay or leave. The player said in September that he has no intention of letting his contract talks with the Reds play out in public. He said: "I have been at the club 20 years now. I have signed four or five contract extensions and none of those have been played out in public - and this one won't be either."