James Pearce reports that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s contract situation and long-term future at Liverpool remain uncertain.
The England international’s current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2025, and there has been no significant progress in negotiations, similar to the cases of Virgil van Dijk and Mo Salah.
Pearce describes the situation as “a tough one to call,” noting that the next few months will be crucial.
He points out that, historically, the longer contract talks drag on, the less likely a compromise will be reached.
He cites examples like Roberto Firmino, James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita, who all left Liverpool as free agents in 2023, and Thiago, who departed under similar circumstances.
However, Pearce emphasizes that Alexander-Arnold’s value and importance to the team make his situation different.
He warns that if Liverpool doesn’t act soon, Alexander-Arnold could sign a pre-contract agreement with an overseas club in just over four months.
Competing with offers from other clubs, especially those offering lucrative signing-on fees, could complicate Liverpool’s efforts to retain the player.
Liverpool’s willingness to go the extra mile to keep Mo Salah in 2022, when they were at risk of losing him for free, may need to be repeated to secure Alexander-Arnold’s future.
Pearce concludes that while it’s crucial for Liverpool to renew Alexander-Arnold’s contract, the delay is concerning, given his value as a generational talent.
He remains hopeful that Liverpool will eventually reach an agreement, but acknowledges that time is running out.
