Trent Alexander-Arnold storm masks 'true' Real Madrid transfer intentions for Liverpool clash

For months, the lack of signs over Trent Alexander-Arnold signing a renewed contract at Liverpool have breathed life into rumours of a transfer to Real Madrid. The Spaniards could get a good look at him on Wednesday, though the Reds may also worry over another of their stars.

Contract talks between the club and Alexander-Arnold have dominated headlines for months. Only a day out from playing the club who would allegedly snap him up for free next summer, Real Madrid, all has been surprisingly quiet on that front, but that can mainly be attributed to Mohamed Salah stealing the spotlight.

For Wednesday's Champions League cash, the vice-captain has been an injury worry, though provided a major boost as he returned to training.

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On the one hand Liverpool and Arne Slot would be pleased to have one of their most influential stars available for such a huge match, on the other they may not like his suitors getting a closer look.

However, they cannot allow this subplot to distract them, not from the main goal of winning another three Champions League points and apparently not from one more of the Reds squad Los Blancos have their eyes on.

According to Marca, those responsible for recruitment at the Santiago Bernabeu have eye on Ryan Gravenberch, amongst many other midfielders.

This was reported alongside their supposed primary interest in Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi - the midfielder that turned down an Anfield transfer mere months ago.

As this happened with Liverpool's top target, the decision was not to rush into the market for an alternative. Gravenberch stepped into the vacant midfield role in Slot's starting XI and nobody has thought twice of it since due to his brilliant performances.

Real Madrid's midfield is the least injury hit area of their squad to come to Anfield on Wednesday. If the Dutchman manages to win the midfield battle against Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric and Co, his employers may have to fend off yet more rumours from Spain.