'I definitely like this!' - Arne Slot responds to Trent Alexander-Arnold's declaration about future plans as Liverpool continue contract talks

Having been with Liverpool since the age of six, Alexander-Arnold has dedicated 20 years to the club. Now 26, the defender has made 330 appearances and collected eight major trophies, including the Premier League, Champions League, and FIFA Club World Cup.

In a recent interview with Men in Blazers, Alexander-Arnold expressed his evolving ambitions. While winning more trophies remains a priority, he highlighted his personal goal of building a lasting legacy at Anfield. "Of course, winning more trophies. But on a personal level, it is building a legacy. That is something that is important," he said.

Responding to Alexander-Arnold’s remarks, Liverpool head coach Slot commended the player’s ambitious outlook as the Dutchman emphasised that a drive to be exceptional is a hallmark of elite athletes.

"I definitely like this in a player. I think this is something every player must have if you play at this level, if you don't have this you probably don't play at this level," Slot told reporters on Friday.

"As long as they understand that they need the team to be special as an individual. As long as they put the team first and as a result be special themselves, that is what they all do - including Trent. All the top players have this, they want to be special, they want to be the best. If that's not what you have I think it is so hard to put the effort in to stay fit, to be good every three days."

Alexander-Arnold’s contract is set to expire in the summer, and speculation about his future has grown with persistent links to Real Madrid. The Reds are in negotiations with the defender but a resolution is yet to be reached.

Liverpool will be back in action against Tottenham on Sunday. The Reds then host Leicester in a Boxing Day clash before travelling to West Ham three days later. After that, they have a week-long break before welcoming Manchester United to Anfield.