Real Madrid's reported stance over one of Alvaro Arbeloa's players seems to have ruled out a potential Manchester City move. Several members of the first-team squad face uncertain futures heading into the summer.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has endured a difficult start to life in the Spanish capital amid recurring injury issues. The English right-back arrived last summer as a free agent after leaving Liverpool.
The 27-year-old has only made 12 appearances across competitions since arriving at the Estadio Bernabeu. But he came off the bench in a 2-0 win over Valencia last weekend and caught the eye.
Real Madrid's stance over Man City-linked Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold's struggles during his debut season had led to talk over his future despite only signing for the club in June 2025. He has been linked with a return to the Premier League amid suggestions Manchester City are eyeing him.
According to Spanish outlet Diario AS (via Madrid Universal), Madrid see Alexander-Arnold as a "game-changer" and the analysis team have highlighted his "immense importance." The focus is on keeping the Englishman fit for the rest of the season.
This all but ends speculation over the England international heading to City and he is reportedly keen to stay at the Bernabeu. Pete O'Rourke claimed on Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast that he is focused on "proving his worth" at Los Blancos.
Alexander-Arnold will be in contention to start Madrid's clash with Real Sociedad in La Liga on Saturday (February 14th). He looks to be ahead of Dani Carvajal in the pecking order which appeared to frustrate the Spaniard when he was kept on the bench last Sunday.
Madrid in the market for a new right-back
Alexander-Arnold may have fresh competition for a starting berth in the Madrid team come next season. The club appear to have doubts over offering Carvajal a new contract and his current deal expires in June.
A new right-back is being considered by the Spanish giants and several names have been linked. Chelsea's Malo Gusto and Manchester United's Diogo Dalot are reportedly of interest while the club have also taken a liking to Sevilla's Jose Angel.
Alexander-Arnold's return means Federico Valverde is likely to return to midfield on a permanent basis. The Uruguayan had been performing a makeshift role throughout the season due to an injury crisis.
The possibility of a new right-back signing might not be a priority given other areas of the team that need strengthening. A new center-back and midfielder are top of the agenda.