Real Madrid Edge Ahead in Trent Alexander-Arnold Pursuit

Liverpool's title hopes may take a hit as Real Madrid close in on free transfer deal for Reds' star Trent Alexander-Arnold, with Ancelotti set to lure him to the Spanish capital. The affected futures of Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk also cast a shadow on the Reds' impending title defence preparations.

The Reds are locked in contract talks with the England right-back, but Real Madrid believe the club's prolonged negotiations will ultimately lose him to the lucrative offer of joining the 14-time European champions for free. Reports suggest that Alexander-Arnold's close friends Jude Bellingham, currently at Real, and Conor Gallagher of Atletico Madrid, may have played a role in the move.

Madrid's expected signing, facilitated by Alexander-Arnold's former England teammate, could put additional pressure on Darwin Nunez and Dominic Solanke to maintain their form, as well as contribute to further disruption in Liverpool's on-field performances. Alexander-Arnold's ongoing contract debacle offers hope to top-four rivals Manchester City and Chelsea, who are keen to exploit any possible downturn in the Reds' consistency.

Liverpool have allocated significant funds for transfers in the current window, reportedly eyeing the addition of Sporting Lisbon's Nuno Mendes and US international Antonee Robinson to address areas of concern, including the anticipated departure of left-back Andy Robertson, who will turn 30 this summer.

José Enrique, a former Real Madrid and Newcastle player, expressed that the Guardiola-led title aspirations hang on closing contracts, saying that players in such positions often seek rewards after appearing for their clubs, with an April to June transfer window crucially important in determining whether their model can override its peers.