Liverpool should put emotion aside and seriously explore a Trent Alexander-Arnold return
Liverpool have been urged to set resentment to one side and consider bringing Trent Alexander-Arnold back after just one season at Real Madrid.
The idea remains highly controversial. The manner of his departure and the hostility it provoked among sections of the support make any reunion politically difficult. Yet the footballing case is becoming harder to dismiss.
Conor Bradley is still months away from returning after a serious knee injury. Jeremie Frimpong has often looked more comfortable in advanced roles. Liverpool have added Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Muñoz this window, but neither signing directly addresses the shortage of a natural, creative right-back. The squad has gained defensive potential and attacking depth; what it still lacks is a proven creator from that position.
Speaking on talkSPORT’s Transfer Insiders, Angelina Kelly argued that the club should at least investigate whether a return is possible rather than allowing emotion to close the door.
“I know what it’s like for a player to, in your opinion, betray the club – especially one of your own, especially being a Liverpudlian. I get it,” she said. “When Real Madrid come calling, it is hard to say no – we have to be honest with that – and he’s made the move and it hasn’t really worked out. And you look at Liverpool and you think do they need a new right-back? I mean, Frimpong didn’t look great last season – I think he’s probably better playing further forward – Bradley injured… I think maybe they should cut their losses and just explore the Trent situation.”
Alexander-Arnold started only 14 league matches in a difficult first season in Spain. The arrival of Denzel Dumfries has further weakened his position, raising the possibility of reduced minutes or an exit this summer.
Bradley remains “way off” a return according to the club, leaving right-back as one of the clearer squad concerns. Alexander-Arnold already understands Liverpool, the Premier League and the specific demands of Anfield. He would require far less adaptation than an unfamiliar signing, and his range of passing would offer a clear advantage against teams that sit deep.
The obstacles are real. Madrid would demand a significant fee, and many supporters still feel betrayed by how he left. Dumfries’ arrival may soften Madrid’s stance, but interest from elsewhere could quickly complicate any deal.
Liverpool should explore the terms without commitment. A reasonably priced reunion would strengthen the side immediately — but only if the player is prepared to work at rebuilding the trust he once held.
