'Another level' - Gary Lineker explains why leaving Liverpool for Real Madrid is perfect for Trent Alexander-Arnold as he opens up on England star's 'absolutely fabulous' move

Lineker, along with Alan Shearer and Micah Richards, discussed the ongoing speculation surrounding Alexander-Arnold's future at Liverpool on the latest The Rest Is Football podcast, with the Match of the Day host suggesting a move to Real would be "fabulous" for the England international. The right-back is expected to sign a long term contract at the Bernabeu this summer when his deal at Anfield expires.

Alexander-Arnold's future has been the subject of intense debate, with reports last week claiming he has now virtually agreed a deal with the Spanish giants after refusing to commit his future to his boyhood club. The news sparked an angry reaction from some supporters, while Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher questioned the defender's decision to leave in search of silverware rather than continuing to build a legacy on Merseyside.

But speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Lineker said: "I don't mind saying I think it'd be an absolutely fabulous move for him. I think to play for Real Madrid is something that is very difficult to turn down. He's been at Liverpool since he was a kid. It transcends him into a kind of another level when you plan for a club like that.

"I think it'll it'll be absolutely brilliant for him. He's their sort of player because they like to see beautiful football and attacking football. He's one of the best passers of the ball in the world game."

Alexander-Arnold is currently sidelined with an ankle injury suffered during Liverpool's Champions League last-16 second leg defeat by PSG. He is likely to return to action towards the end of April, by which time runaway leaders Liverpool may have already sealed only their second Premier League title. Official confirmation of his move to Madrid could come before the end of the season, with manager Arne Slot already said to weighing up potential replacements.