Why Trent Alexander-Arnold’s story will save Liverpool millions even though he has a free transfer to Real Madrid.

Even if Trent Alexander-Arnold completes a free move to Real Madrid, Liverpool can still save millions. The Spanish powerhouses are quite interested in the Reds defender, who has not yet extended his contract past 2025.

If Alexander-Arnold doesn’t sign fresh terms at Anfield, he can agree to a pre-contract with a foreign team starting on January 1, 2025. According to reports, the England international would receive a huge offer from Real Madrid to join Los Blancos, where he would team up with Jude Bellingham, a friend and Three Lions teammate.

Given that Bradley has replaced Alexander-Arnold in four of his five substitute appearances this season, Arne Slot may have even had a succession plan in mind. With some encouraging performances last season, the Northern Irishman also demonstrated his ability to be Liverpool’s first-choice right-back.

Having spent the 2022-23 season excelling on loan at Bolton, former boss Jurgen Klopp was determined to integrate the academy graduate into his first-team squad. With Alexander-Arnold struggling with a knee injury for parts of 2023-24, Bradley was given his chance to shine.

The 21-year-old made 23 appearances across all competitions, including 11 in the Premier League. His contribution was limited by a back injury he suffered at the start of the season.

His coming of age came in a thumping 4-0 victory over Chelsea at Anfield. He rattled home his first Liverpool goal with technical ability Alexander-Arnold would be proud to produce, and also bagged two assists.

Bradley set up two goals in a 5-2 victory over Norwich City in the FA Cup, proving he can replace the output of Alexander-Arnold. He ended the campaign with a goal and six assists, and played in the Carabao Cup final victory over Chelsea

A major advantage for Bradley over external candidates to replace Alexander-Arnold is his tactical versatility. He can play as a traditional wing-back, able to burst forward down the right wing.

Bradley has captained Northern Ireland a few times, demonstrating his ability to compensate for the leadership skills Liverpool will lose with Alexander-Arnold’s departure. He would be the ideal replacement and come at no cost to the Reds. However, he also possesses the tactical acumen and technical skill to switch to a midfield position, meaning Slot will be able to play the same system even if Alexander-Arnold leaves.

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