Manchester City are considering a summer move for Real Madrid right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold as Pep Guardiola looks to address growing concerns in the defensive flank.
According to reports, City are monitoring the England international’s situation in Spain following a difficult start to life at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Alexander-Arnold left Liverpool for Real Madrid last summer in a high-profile switch that disappointed many Reds supporters. However, the 27-year-old has struggled to cement a regular starting role in Carlo Ancelotti’s side, with injuries further limiting his impact.
The defender has made just five La Liga starts this season and missed Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Villarreal at the weekend through injury, raising fresh doubts over his long-term role at the club.
City keeping close watch on situation
Manchester City are believed to be keeping close tabs on Alexander-Arnold’s availability as they prepare for a busy summer transfer window.
Despite reinforcing their squad in January with the signings of Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi, Guardiola’s side are expected to target a new right-back at the end of the campaign.
City have already been linked with Brentford’s Michael Kayode and Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento as potential options, but Alexander-Arnold’s pedigree and Premier League experience make him an appealing alternative.
A return to England would see the former Liverpool star reunite with familiar surroundings after a challenging period in Spain.
Right-back keen to succeed in Madrid
Any deal for Alexander-Arnold is likely to prove costly. The defender signed a five-year contract with Real Madrid last summer, meaning Los Blancos are under no immediate pressure to sell.
Furthermore, Alexander-Arnold is reportedly determined to make his mark in Spain and establish himself as a key figure at the Bernabeu after a disrupted first season.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, remain focused on their European campaign. Following Saturday’s league win over Villarreal, they will turn their attention to a crucial Champions League clash with Benfica in midweek.
Los Blancos currently sit inside the top eight of the league-phase standings and hold a two-point cushion over the playoff positions heading into the final round of fixtures.
For City, the pursuit of Alexander-Arnold would signal another bold move in their bid to refresh an ageing defence and maintain their dominance at the top of English football.
Whether the Premier League champions can tempt the England star back from Madrid remains to be seen, but his uncertain role in Spain could yet open the door to a blockbuster summer transfer.
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