Liverpoool are not expecting Real Madrid to return with a fresh attempt to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold before the forthcoming transfer deadline. The Reds strongly rebuffed the Spanish outfit when they made an official approach over the festive period regards the possibility of taking Alexander-Arnold from Anfield.

The right-back is out of contract at the end of the season and, with talks over a new agreement having reached an impasse, Real Madrid are considered strong favourites to sign the player on a free transfer in the summer.

However, a serious injury to Dani Carvajal and lack of recognised senior right-back alternatives in their squad prompted the European Super League advocates to bring forward their expected interest in Alexander-Arnold and approach Liverpool.

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Despite the instant rejection - it is understood conversations didn't even reach mention of a fee before Liverpool made it clear they were not interested in selling the England international this month - claims in Spain had indicated Real were willing to make another attempt at signing the player.

But it has now emerged the European champions accept Liverpool are intent on keeping Alexander-Arnold for the remainder of the season with Arne Slot's side top of both the Premier League and Champions League, in the League Cup semi-finals and making progress in the FA Cup.

A report in Spanish news outlet Marca on Friday afternoon suggests Real Madrid will now concentrate on attempting to broker a deal with Alexander-Arnold to join on a free after his contract expires in the summer.

Having entered the last six months of his contract, the 26-year-old is permitted to talk with potential suitors from abroad.

Alexander-Arnold is one of three Liverpool players who will be out of contract at the end of the season, with talks ongoing with both Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk. While Salah and Van Dijk have intimated their desire to stay at Anfield, Alexander-Arnold has remained silent over his preferred next move.