Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot could inadvertently provide the perfect solution to Liverpool’s biggest transfer concern, after news that Real Madrid approached Liverpool to discuss the possibility of a January transfer for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Those discussions concluded sharply with Liverpool bosses unwillingness to discuss the departure of a player that could derail its title hopes, although the latest twist in this transfer saga has resulted in some disgruntled tremors at Anfield.

A move next summer looks likely, although the possibility of Dalot making the switch to Bernabeu in January could scupper those plans. Real is keen on the United full-back, who will come up against Liverpool and Alexander-Arnold at Anfield on Sunday.

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With first-choice right-back Dani Carvajal injured, Real wants a solution now, hence the January bid for Alexander-Arnold. Dalot could provide that, especially with a cash-strapped United in desperate need to raise funds.

Whether a bid will be forthcoming from the Spanish giants in January remains unclear, or whether Dalot would be open to the move, but sources have told Liverpool.com that Carlo Ancelotti is a fan of the Portuguese defender. His ability to play on both flanks is seen as a major positive given Real also has issues at left-back.

Should Dalot complete a move to the Spanish capital, it throws up the possibility that right-back is no longer seen as a transfer priority, putting Alexander-Arnold’s potential signing into doubt.

The 25-year-old has established himself as one of United’s most reliable players this season and has played in every single game under both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, while he has started all 19 Premier League matches.

As for Alexander-Arnold, he has incurred the wrath of Jamie Carragher, who for the second time this season, has publicly criticized one of the Liverpool players whose contract status remains uncertain.

“The most important thing for [Liverpool] in 2025 is winning the [Premier League],” he wrote on X. “No one’s contract or future should come in the way of that!

“I love Trent as a lad & a player, but his team would’ve told Real Madrid to bid & also would’ve known LFC would turn it down. It’s to try & cover themselves when he leaves for free. Again it’s something the club/fans don’t need with a huge game coming up.”

Alexander-Arnold’s reception by the fans at Anfield on Sunday will be telling given the magnitude of the game and the impact it could have on the Premier League title race.