Real Madrid request Trent Alexander-Arnold’s early release from Liverpool

Real Madrid have requested that Liverpool allow Trent Alexander-Arnold to join them for free so he can participate in the group stages of the Club World Cup, according to The Telegraph.

The Spanish giants have not made a financial offer to the Reds and are instead hoping the club will permit the right-back’s early departure, ahead of his contract expiring on June 30.

Real Madrid contacted Liverpool last week after Alexander-Arnold announced his intention to leave.

Initially, it was assumed that the request was part of negotiations regarding a nominal fee for the player.

However, Real Madrid’s only request is for the 26-year-old to join them earlier than planned.

Alexander-Arnold is set to sign with Real Madrid on a five-year contract as a free agent

However, the club hope to include him in their squad for the expanded 32-team tournament, which kicks off on June 14 in the United States.

Madrid are hoping the Premier League champions will agree to release the England international, with suggestions that Alexander-Arnold may waive the final month of his salary.

Alexander-Arnold is set to sign with Real Madrid on a five-year contract as a free agent

However, it appears this move cannot be enforced without Liverpool’s consent. For example, Alexander-Arnold cannot simply walk out, as Liverpool will retain his registration until his contract expires.

Spanish sources had initially reported that Madrid were prepared to offer between £500,000 and £850,000 for an early release, but it seems this is no longer part of their current strategy.

As things stand, Alexander-Arnold will miss Real Madrid’s group-stage matches against Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal on June 18, Mexico’s Pachuca on June 22, and RB Salzburg on June 27.

The knockout stages of the tournament begin on June 28, with the last-16 ties wrapping up by July 1. In theory, that would be the first date Alexander-Arnold could play for Real Madrid.

However, this would require Liverpool’s agreement for him to fly to the US in time to be involved.

The Club World Cup offers a substantial £94million prize for the winners.