Trent Alexander-Arnold appears to be closer than ever to signing with Real Madrid, but his friend and England teammate Jude Bellingham has refused to discuss his future.
Bellingham's character was on display when he declined to comment on Alexander-Arnold's uncertain future at Liverpool, prior to reports emerging that he is nearing a deal with Real Madrid. The Reds vice-captain is out of contract at the end of the season and has been consistently linked with a summer move to join his England teammate in Spain.
While Madrid submitted a £20 million bid for Alexander-Arnold in January that was swiftly rejected, fresh reports claim that a deal has been agreed with the right-back to take him to the Bernabeu. Alexander-Arnold has remained tight-lipped about his future throughout the season, but others in the football world have been speculating about his next move.
One player who has declined to comment on Alexander-Arnold's future is Bellingham, with whom he shares a close bond. As only the sixth English player to represent Madrid, the midfielder was asked before facing Liverpool in the Champions League earlier this season whether he could be joined by his international colleague at club level.
Opting not to make his friend's situation more difficult, Bellingham showed respect for Alexander-Arnold and Premier League giants Liverpool in his response. Speaking at a press conference, he said, "Would I like to play with Trent? I will be with him in the national team, so that will be guaranteed."
"He is a Liverpool player, and talking about the future is disrespectful. The important thing is to relieve the pressure. He is a great friend, and I wish him all the best. Except tomorrow."
If Alexander-Arnold were to leave, Arne Slot has Conor Bradley as an option, but a more senior replacement would likely be sought. Reports suggest that the Dutchman is interested in Bayer Leverkusen wing-back Jeremie Frimpong and has already spoken with the Netherlands international.
Frimpong, who spent nine years in Manchester City's academy, has emerged as one of the best full-backs in world football since signing for Leverkusen in 2021. With 29 goals and 40 assists in 182 games for Leverkusen, the 24-year-old provides a significant attacking threat from his position.
Reportedly possessing a £33.5 million release clause in his contract, the Reds may face competition from other top clubs, including Barcelona and Bayern Munich, if they target Frimpong this summer.
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