Trent Alexander-Arnold could reportedly make a stunning return to Liverpool just 12 months after leaving Anfield for Real Madrid.
Transfer insider Indy Kaila claims the England international would be willing to return to his boyhood club if Liverpool and Real Madrid can agree on a suitable transfer fee.
Alexander-Arnold departed Liverpool as a free agent last summer after allowing his contract to expire, but his first year in Madrid has reportedly been far from straightforward. Injuries and changes to his role have disrupted his progress, while the arrival of Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan could now create an even bigger problem.
Dumfries is reportedly being used as Real Madrid’s preferred right-back at the start of the new La Liga campaign, potentially leaving Alexander-Arnold facing an uncertain future at the Bernabéu.
That could open the door for an extraordinary Liverpool comeback.
A return to Anfield would be a remarkable development considering the circumstances surrounding his departure. However, it could also offer Alexander-Arnold the opportunity to revive his career at the club where he rose through the academy and established himself as one of the world’s most creative full-backs.
Liverpool could certainly benefit from his return too. Injuries have left the club short of options at right-back, while Jeremie Frimpong provides plenty of pace and attacking ability but may be more effective in a higher position.
Alexander-Arnold’s passing, vision and ability to deliver from deep would give Liverpool a different dimension, particularly against teams sitting in a low block.
There would, however, be plenty of obstacles. Real Madrid would have to consider selling a player they only signed a year ago, while Alexander-Arnold would also have to repair his relationship with supporters following his controversial free-transfer departure.
Nevertheless, football can change incredibly quickly. If his opportunities in Madrid continue to decrease and Real become open to negotiations, Liverpool could find themselves with an unexpected opportunity to bring one of their academy graduates home.
For now, everything depends on whether Liverpool and Real Madrid can reach an agreement. But if Alexander-Arnold really does return to Anfield just one year after leaving, it would be one of the most remarkable transfer twists imaginable.
