BREAKING NEWS: Real Madrid have made an surprising decision on signing Trent Alexander-Arnold. Trent Alexander Arnold to Real Madrid is forever happening.

Real Madrid have long been linked with a potential move for Trent Alexander-Arnold, but it now appears that the Spanish giants are preparing a backup plan in case their pursuit of the Liverpool star doesn’t go as planned. According to CaughtOffside, the 25-year-old right-back remains Real Madrid’s top target, especially with his contract at Anfield entering its final nine months.

The reigning Champions League holders are reportedly encouraged by Alexander-Arnold’s contract situation, which could make him available for negotiations in just a few months. However, in a move that could relieve some of Liverpool’s concerns, Real Madrid aren’t solely focused on the England international. It is suggested that they are also considering Tottenham Hotspur’s Pedro Porro as an alternative if their efforts to sign Alexander-Arnold fall short.

Reports indicate that Tottenham are wary of Porro being tempted by a return to Spain, but they might be open to discussions if a substantial offer comes in—reportedly around €65 million (£54.6 million). This figure could be enough to bring the London club to the negotiating table, making Porro a realistic Plan B for Real Madrid.

Despite Real Madrid’s interest, Liverpool cannot afford to become complacent regarding Alexander-Arnold’s future. The right-back remains their primary transfer target, and as things stand, Real Madrid could begin discussions with him in just three months about a potential free transfer to the Bernabeu in 2025.

During the summer transfer window, Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes understandably focused on incoming signings, but with the market now closed for nearly five weeks and not reopening until January, contract renewals should now be at the top of the club’s priorities. Extending deals for key players like Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah should be high on the agenda.

Liverpool’s strong start to the season could help their case in convincing Alexander-Arnold to stay. If the team continues to compete for major trophies, it may strengthen the right-back’s desire to remain at his boyhood club, knowing that they still have the potential to win silverware.

In contrast, Pedro Porro’s situation at Tottenham could make him more open to a move. While Spurs are capable of competing in domestic cups and the Europa League, their chances of winning major trophies remain slim compared to Real Madrid’s consistent success on the European stage. This lack of silverware since 2008 might make Porro more inclined to join Los Blancos if an opportunity arises.

Ultimately, if Liverpool want to put an end to any lingering concerns about losing Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid, they need to prioritize resolving his contract situation quickly. Offering him a new deal and demonstrating that the club is committed to competing at the highest level could be key to ensuring he remains at Anfield, rather than making the switch to Spain.

As the January transfer window approaches, the futures of both Alexander-Arnold and Porro will likely be key talking points. Liverpool will need to act swiftly to keep their vice-captain out of Real Madrid’s clutches, while Tottenham will be keen to hold onto their rising star. Whether Alexander-Arnold stays at Anfield or Real Madrid turns their attention to Porro, both clubs are likely in for an intense period of negotiations in the months ahead.