La Liga powerhouse Real Madrid are close to signing English defender Trent Alexander-Arnold of Premier League leaders Liverpool on a five-year contract after he becomes a free agent this summer, according to BBC.

Having been promoted to the first team in "The Reds" in July 2016, Alexander-Arnold has made 349 appearances for the club with 22 goals and 87 assists in all competitions. He helped them win the UEFA Champions League in the 2018-19 campaign and the Premier League title in the following season.

Real made an offer for Alexander-Arnold in December but it was turned down by Liverpool who are on their way to winning their first domestic league championship since 2020 under manager Arne Slot.

However, since the extension negotiation between Liverpool and Alexander-Arnold went nowhere, the player was able to talk to other clubs since the turn of this year.

If Alexander-Arnold joins Real, he will make the club's list of star English players that includes David Beckham, Steve McManaman, Michael Owen, Jonathan Woodgate, and more importantly, his current national team teammate, Jude Bellingham.

Alexander-Arnold aside, Liverpool are also at risk of losing another two key players, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah whose contracts will end after the 2024-25 season. They are currently leading the Premier League with a 12-point advantage after 29 games, but may have to deal with a rebuild this summer.