'It will tarnish him' - Trent Alexander-Arnold sent Real Madrid transfer warning by Michael Owen as Liverpool contract stand-off continues

Alexander-Arnold's future at Liverpool has been the subject of speculation as the England star is into the final year of his contract at Anfield. A free transfer to Real Madrid has been speculated on, with Los Blancos believed to have already been in touch with Alexander-Arnold about a move that would see him link up with England team-mate Jude Bellingham at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Owen knows all about swapping Liverpool for Madrid, having made the switch to the Spanish capital in 2004 after coming through the ranks at Anfield. The former England striker has now warned Alexander-Arnold that he risks losing the adoration of the Liverpool faithful if he does decide it's time for a new challenge at the end of the season.

He told The Telegraph: "The Trent situation is an interesting one… Trent has done everything for Liverpool. He adores Liverpool. If he goes, no one should begrudge him a different experience in his life and career. Whatever happens he should be regarded as a hero. Sadly, it does affect the way people view you. It will tarnish him in some eyes even though it shouldn’t."

Alexander-Arnold is set to come up against Real Madrid next in the Champions League. Los Blancos are due at Anfield on Wednesday and manager Arne Slot will be hoping his right-back is fit for the crunch clash after he sustained an injury in the team's win over Aston Villa before the international break.