"He's shown that he's ready" - Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson chooses replacement for Alexander-Arnold amid Real Madrid interest

Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson expects Trent Alexander-Arnold to join Real Madrid but thinks Conor Bradley can replace the English right-back. Speculation continues to grow over Alexander-Arnold's future at Anfield amid talk of a potential move to the Santiago Bernabeu next year.

Alexander-Arnold's contract expires next summer, and Madrid are interested in the creative full-back. He's been a key player for Arne Slot's Reds this season, posting two assists in nine games across competitions.

Lawrenson envisions the 26-year-old joining his close friend Jude Bellingham at the Bernabeu. He said (via SportsCasting):

"I think Trent will go to Real Madrid to go and play with Jude Bellingham, and he’d be allowed to play wherever he wanted in that team. I can see it happening, I really hope it doesn’t though. He’s a well-educated guy and he’ll be thinking about going to Madrid and learning the language, earning good money, what’s there not to like?"

If Alexander-Arnold does leave Liverpool, the question will turn to who will replace him as right-back. The Merseysiders could scour the market for a replacement, but Lawrenson suggests they needn't look further than Bradley:

"I wouldn’t say Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah (contracts also expiring) are all irreplaceable. I think Conor Bradley has the makings of an outstanding full-back if Trent were to leave. He’s shown that he’s ready to start more for the first team and already has a number of good displays to point to."

Bradley broke into the first team last season when Alexander-Arnold was sidelined with a knee injury. The Northern Irish defender enjoyed a fine short spell in Jurgen Klopp's starting XI, including a goal and two assists in a 4-1 win against Chelsea.

The 21-year-old is one of the finest young talents at Anfield and is expected to have a bright future with the Reds. He's made six appearances across competitions under Slot.

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Real Madrid consider January swoop for Trent Alexander-Arnold who has reportedly told Liverpool he won't renew

Trent Alexander-Arnold has told Liverpool he's not signing an extension (Image - Getty)

Alexander-Arnold's future is a hot topic of discussion, with links to Real Madrid intensifying. The Reds' vice-captain is free to speak to clubs from abroad in January and strike pre-contract agreements.

Marca reports that Alexander-Arnold told Liverpool he won't renew his contract. He's been with the Merseysiders his whole career but appears to be eyeing a move to the Spanish capital.

Real Madrid are considering trying to sign the Premier League's top-assisting defender in January. If not, they will look to do so on a free transfer next summer.