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Three alternatives Real Madrid should consider if they miss out on Trent Alexander-Arnold
Real Madrid’s interest in Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has become widely known.
The young English full-back, who has been a standout performer for the Reds, is set to see his current contract expire in 2025 and this situation has caught the attention of Real Madrid, who are eager to seize the opportunity to bring him to Spain.
However, Liverpool are not standing idly by. Recent reports suggest that the club is taking proactive measures to keep Alexander-Arnold on their roster, ensuring he remains a vital part of their squad.
To prevent losing one of England’s most promising talents, Liverpool are focused on extending Alexander-Arnold’s contract. This effort involves offering him a more attractive salary that reflects his importance to the team and his value in the football market.
Real Madrid, aware of the situation, are also preparing for various outcomes. They understand that if Alexander-Arnold stays with Liverpool, they will need to explore alternative options to bolster their squad.
In light of this, let’s examine three potential players that could serve as viable alternatives for Real Madrid.
Diogo Dalot
One of the most notable candidates is Diogo Dalot, the Portuguese full-back currently playing for Manchester United. Dalot has demonstrated remarkable consistency in his performances, making him an attractive prospect for many clubs, including Real Madrid.
At 25 years old, he has showcased his versatility on the pitch, proving effective in both defensive and offensive roles. His ability to contribute to the attack while fulfilling his defensive responsibilities has garnered attention from top clubs across Europe.
Furthermore, Dalot’s market value makes him a financially feasible option for Real Madrid. With a weekly wage of approximately £100,000, signing him would not significantly disrupt the club’s existing salary structure.
This aspect makes him an appealing candidate for Real Madrid as they look to enhance their squad without incurring excessive financial strain.
Achraf Hakimi
Another exciting possibility for Real Madrid is Achraf Hakimi, currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain. Hakimi is an exceptional talent, and his contract with PSG runs until 2026.
This timing could align perfectly with Real Madrid’s aspirations, allowing them to potentially secure his services in the summer of 2025.
Hakimi’s pace, technical skills, and attacking prowess make him one of the top full-backs in the world today. His ability to contribute significantly to both defence and attack could make him a valuable addition to Real Madrid’s lineup.
Real Madrid previously had Hakimi on their books, and his return could reignite the connection he has with the club, making the move even more enticing.
Given the chance, Hakimi could thrive in Real Madrid’s system, bringing his unique talents back to his former club.
Jeremie Frimpong
Lastly, Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen presents another interesting option for Real Madrid. While this choice may seem more challenging, Frimpong’s offensive style of play and his ability to impact games make him a compelling candidate.
At just 23 years old, he has already made a significant mark with his performances, contributing one goal and two assists this season under the management of Xabi Alonso.
Frimpong’s current contract runs until 2028, but the dynamics of the transfer market could open opportunities for Real Madrid.
If Bayer Leverkusen have a successful season, they may be less inclined to let him go. However, any potential move by Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid could create a situation where Frimpong becomes available, adding an intriguing layer to this transfer scenario.
Real Madrid will be eager to move to the top of the La Liga standings as they get set to take on Real Betis in a Matchday 4 fixture in La Liga tonight.
Under new manager Jose Mourinho, the Merengues have made a strong start to the season, winning three in three, with their latest match ending in a 4-0 triumph against Malaga at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The fact that superstars like Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Jr. have made strong starts to the season, while new signings Marc Cucurella and Ibrahima Konate have also made positive impact bodes well for Los Blancos.
The aim will be to secure their fourth victory in a row and continue building the momentum especially with the UEFA Champions League opener against Inter Milan coming up next.
Going into the game, though, Real Madrid will once again be without as many as seven players as Aurelien Tchouameni, Endrick, Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy, Rodrygo Goes, Thiago Pitarch, and Raul Asencio remain unavailable.
New teenage signing Sergio Martinez has been named in the squad and could be in line for his debut at Estadio de La Cartuja tonight.
Having made some rotations to the starting XI last time out against Malaga, here’s how Mourinho could set his Real Madrid team up tonight.
Defence
Thibaut Courtois is a confirmed starter in goal for Real Madrid and will be looking for his second clean sheet of the new campaign.
As for the defensive line, there is likely to be only one change with Ibrahima Konate coming back into the team in place of Antonio Rudiger, who made his first start of the season vs Malaga.
Dean Huijsen has been a constant fixture at the heart of the defence so far and that is unlikely to change.
At right-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold appears set to retain his place after an impressive display in his first start of the season last weekend. It means, new signing Denzel Dumfries will remain on the bench. Marc Cucurella, meanwhile, should start again on the left side.
Midfield
Bernardo Silva was one of the players that Mourinho rotated against Malaga, and is expected to return to the lineup tonight against Real Betis.
The Portuguese international has done fairly well in his new role as part of the double pivot alongside Federico Valverde, who will retain his place in the team.
It would mean Eduardo Camavinga misses out after having a decent game on his first start of the season last weekend.
Jude Bellingham has been in spectacular form since the start of the season, already racking up two goals and two assists from three games. Back in his preferred role as an attacking midfielder, he will start there again tonight.
Attack
Moving into the attacking unit, Mourinho is expected to make one key change as Arda Guler should replace Brahim Diaz on the right flank after scoring Real Madrid’s fourth goal against Malaga coming on as a substitute.
What it also means is that blockbuster summer signing Yan Diomande will have to wait for his first start for Real Madrid.
Kylian Mbappe has already scored four goals in three games, making a blistering start to the season and will be aiming to build on that as he chases a hat-trick of Pichichi Trophies.
Rounding off the attacking trident will be superstar Vinicius Jr., who will also be hoping to get among the goals.
