Real Madrid target’s Barcelona admiration comes to light after old interview resurfaces

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool’s highly-regarded right-back, has long been recognised as one of the best in his position. 

His talent and consistency have attracted significant attention, with Real Madrid being one of the top clubs keenly following his situation. 

As the Spanish giants plan for the future, they see Alexander-Arnold as a potential replacement for Dani Carvajal, whose long-standing role at the club is nearing its end.

What makes this situation even more intriguing is that Alexander-Arnold’s contract with Liverpool is set to expire at the end of the current season. 

This puts him in a unique position, as Real Madrid are reportedly looking to swoop in and secure his services once the January transfer window opens. T

The January period marks the final six months of his contract, making it legally permissible for clubs outside the Premier League to negotiate directly with the player.

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Trent Alexander-Arnold is a Barcelona fan. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Amid this transfer speculation, an old interview from 2020 has resurfaced, adding an interesting layer to the story. In the interview, Alexander-Arnold expressed his admiration for Barcelona, revealing that they have been one of his favourite teams. 

“I would say that my other favourite team is Barcelona,” he said on the programme El Chiringuito (h/t MARCA). 

He mentioned that Barcelona’s values, particularly their focus on developing youth players, align with those of Liverpool. 

“I feel like Barça have the same values ​​and beliefs as Liverpool. They like to bring out players from the youth system.”

Growing up, the English right-back admired legendary players like Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Thierry Henry, and Samuel Eto’o, all of whom played a crucial role in shaping his passion for the game.

“I grew up watching Messi and that special Barcelona team with Iniesta, Xavi, Henry, Eto’o.”

Despite this revelation, it is Real Madrid who are expected to make the strongest move for the player, seeing him as a key component in their squad’s future.