Journalist claims Real Madrid 'would love' to sign Liverpool defender

Real Madrid would be interested in signing Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, according to a journalist.

On Wednesday the Reds’ Champions League hopes ended at the hands of Real Madrid for the third consecutive season, as Jurgen Klopp’s side failed to overturn a hefty first-leg defeat.

Liverpool lost 5-2 at Anfield three weeks ago and lined up with four forwards at the Bernabeu in an attempt to pull off a comeback for the ages.

However, that rarely looked on the cards, with Real striker Karim Benzema putting the tie beyond any doubt in the closing stages, tapping in Vinicius Jr's cutback to help Los Blancos to a 1-0 win.

Liverpool players walked off to the Bernabeu speakers blasting 'You'll Never Walk Alone' as they digested the club’s biggest-ever aggregate Champions League defeat.

Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid?

One of the night’s most disappointing performers was Alexander-Arnold.

The Liverpool star has been lauded for his creative prowess throughout his career, however, this term his defensive work has come under increased scrutiny.

Despite his loss of form, Liverpool journalist Neil Jones claimed that the right-back is a target for reigning European champions Real.

Writing in Goal, Jones said: “Liverpool have no intention of selling one of their best and most decorated players, of course, but there will be plenty of top clubs looking closely at how the story develops. The likes of Real Madrid, for example, would love a player of his calibre.”

In the summer Alexander-Arnold will have just two years left on his current Liverpool deal, and negotiations over a new contract are expected in the coming months.

The defender has long expressed a desire to remain with the Merseyside club for the bulk of his career, and one day even captain the club.

And according to Jones, the “smart money” says Alexander-Arnold will agree on a new contract at some point this year, with Klopp backing him to come through his recent struggles.