'Ridiculous!' - Simon Jordan slams Liverpool fans for 'persecuting' Trent Alexander-Arnold over move to Real Madrid as La Liga giants close in on free transfer agreement

Jordan has labelled Liverpool fans "ridiculous" for their reaction to Alexander-Arnold's rumoured move to Real Madrid. The former Crystal Palace owner believes some of the responses to the defender's potential departure have been over the top, claiming supporters should have a greater understanding of Real's pulling power when it comes to the world's best players.

The England international is yet to sign a new contract at Anfield, with reports this week claiming he has virtually agreed a deal to join Real Madrid on a free transfer at the end of the season. Alexander-Arnold has established himself as one of world football’s most creative defenders since graduating from Liverpool’s academy in 2016, winning every major honour available during his time with the Reds.

News of the deal getting closer has provoked an angry reaction from some supporters online in recent days, with fans unhappy that one of their own has seemingly decided to leave for nothing, thus costing Liverpool millions.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Jordan said: "I think it's a little bit over the top. I think it's ridiculous for them to be persecuting the player. If you're talking about players and David (radio caller) is making a point about why you would go to Real Madrid - name me one of the greatest footballers in the world that Real Madrid have approached (and) have turned them down, irrespective of who they played for, where they've come from, their background - they'll go.”

The right-back is currently sidelined through injury and was left out of Thomas Tuchel's first England squad, but will be hoping to play a key role in Liverpool’s push for the title when he returns to fitness. Confirmation of his move to Madrid appears to be getting closer, with the La Liga giants hoping to finalise a deal before the season ends.