Real Madrid have reportedly given up in their efforts to sign Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold this month.
The Reds were seemingly preparing for the exit of the right-back recently, making 'direct contact' with Bayern Munich over the availability of Joshua Kimmich.
Alexander-Arnold remains a key part of Arne Slot's plans at Anfield despite intense transfer speculation, with the Englishman starting the 1-1 draw with title rivals Nottingham Forest on Tuesday night.
While the Reds sit top of the standings and appear set for a second-ever Premier league title, the 26-year-old has not been at his creative best based on the numbers.
The academy graduate has only provided four assists across 19 Premier League contests for Liverpool during the 2024-25 campaign, finding the net once himself.
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Real Madrid 'give up' on 'practically impossible' Alexander-Arnold move
According to Spanish outlet Revelo, Real Madrid have taken a step back in their efforts to bring Liverpool hero Alexander-Arnold to the club in the immediate future.
The report states that Los Blancos have shelved their attempts to sign the right-back during the winter transfer window as they seek a Dani Carvajal replacement.
It is understood that Alexander-Arnold is not pushing for mid-season switch away from Anfield, making a swoop for his service particularly difficult.
There is also a reluctance from Slot's men to part ways with one of their most important players during the heat of a Premier League title charge.
However, it is expected that Alexander-Arnold will trade Anfield for the Bernabeu during the summer, bringing his nine-year stay in the Liverpool first team to an end.
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Alexander-Arnold looking for the perfect farewell
Ever since Real Madrid submitted a rather-insulting £20m bid for Alexander-Arnold at the start of January, it always appeared likely that he would stay put on Merseyside this month.
The prospect of lifting the Premier League for the second time - and the first in front of a sold-out Anfield - is surely too attractive a proposition to turn down for the 26-year-old.
A thought also needs to be given to the legacy of Alexander-Arnold at Anfield, with a January switch having the potential to be spun as a betrayal of his boyhood club in some sense.
Nevertheless, the right-back is still free to discuss a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs, including Carlo Ancelotti's men, as next campaign draws nearer.
Carter White
