Report: Manchester City in talks over former Liverpool star | OneFootball

Man City Monitor Alexander-Arnold Situation as Madrid Frustrations Emerge

Manchester City are monitoring developments around Trent Alexander-Arnold as uncertainty grows over his future at Real Madrid, according to a report from TeamTalk. While there has been no formal approach, intermediaries have begun exploratory conversations, reflecting City’s long-term planning as they assess options at right-back ahead of the summer window.

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Sources close to the situation suggest Alexander-Arnold remains committed to proving himself in Spain, yet there is growing frustration behind the scenes at how his debut campaign has unfolded. His move from Liverpool was one of last summer’s most eye-catching transfers, but the England international has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Alexander-Arnold has started just five La Liga matches, a return that has inevitably prompted renewed speculation about his future. As one source put it, “there is frustration behind the scenes over how his debut season in Spain has unfolded”, a sentiment that has not gone unnoticed by clubs tracking his situation.

City Assess Right-Back Market Ahead of Busy Summer

Manchester City are in the market for a new right-back and are understood to be conducting due diligence across several high-profile options. Talks involving Alexander-Arnold should be viewed in that context rather than as an indication of imminent movement.

While no bid has been lodged, City are assessing whether circumstances could shift later in the window. Alexander-Arnold’s contract situation complicates matters. He signed a five-year deal when joining Madrid last summer, running until 2029, meaning any deal would require a significant outlay in both transfer fee and wages.

Madrid are not under pressure to sell, but TeamTalk notes that “the player’s frustration could open the door if the right offer arrives”. That conditional phrasing reflects the reality of the situation, possible, but far from straightforward.

Squad Refresh Shapes Transfer Thinking

City’s evolving transfer strategy adds further intrigue. New sporting director Hugo Viana has already signalled a willingness to pursue ambitious deals, following January moves for Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo. Those deals have “set the tone for what promises to be a bold approach in the next window”.

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With uncertainty surrounding several senior figures, including Rodri, John Stones and Bernardo Silva, the club are preparing for a summer of recalibration. Right-back is among the positions under review as Guardiola’s side look to stay ahead of the curve.

Alexander-Arnold’s pedigree remains undeniable. During his time at Liverpool, he won eight major trophies, scoring 23 goals and registering 92 assists in 354 appearances. However, his muted impact in Madrid colours suggests a return to the Premier League could appeal if his situation does not improve.

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Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The idea of Alexander-Arnold at the Etihad is intriguing, especially given City’s long-standing appreciation for technically elite full-backs who can dictate play from wide areas.

There would be excitement about what he could offer in possession, particularly in matches where City dominate the ball. His creative numbers at Liverpool were extraordinary, and in a Guardiola system built on structure and spacing, there is a sense he could rediscover that influence.

That said, fans would also be cautious. The price would be enormous, and City supporters have seen how carefully the club weigh value, durability and tactical fit. There would be questions about defensive balance and whether investing so heavily in one position is the right move during a broader squad refresh.

Ultimately, this feels like smart opportunism rather than a firm plan. City keeping tabs on elite talent is nothing new. If Alexander-Arnold’s frustrations deepen, the door may open, but supporters will trust the club to act only if the deal makes football and financial sense.