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Real Madrid continue to be linked with a potential move for Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold next summer

Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool during a training session at AXA Training Centre(Image: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Glen Johnson admits it will "difficult" for Trent Alexander-Arnold to resist Real Madrid and has warned Liverpool the clock is ticking on their attempt to stop the defender walking away for nothing next summer. Alexander-Arnold has entered the final 12 months of his current deal at Anfield with European Super League backers Real Madrid increasingly touted to be preparing a move to sign the England international on a free transfer at the end of the season.

The 25-year-old is currently on holiday after featuring in the European Championships, with Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes having made contract negotiations with the player a priority on his return to the AXA Training Centre.

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But former Reds right-back Johnson fears the Bernabeu will prove too strong a lure unless Liverpool can swiftly agree a new deal with Alexander-Arnold.

“Madrid’s Madrid," said Johnson. "Liverpool are going to be going through some uncertain times in the short-term, so if Real Madrid are at the table, it’s difficult for players to not go. If he goes there, he’s likely to win the Champions League again, so I don’t think he could turn that down and Madrid would be crazy to not try and sign him.

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"He could even sign a pre-contract with them from January onwards, but Liverpool can’t lose him for free. He’s way too good for that to happen and it would be ridiculous business for Liverpool to allow him to leave on a free transfer.

“I’m sure Liverpool are trying to keep him, but as the clock’s ticking and that Real Madrid are interested in him, then it’s only going against Liverpool at this moment in time.”

Liverpool skipper Virgil van Dijk is another in the last year of his contract at Anfield and has hinted at assessing his long-term future in the coming weeks. And Johnson, in an interview with Betfred, admits it would be a major blow if the Dutchman opts to leave this summer.

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“I would be alarmed if he left," he said. "He may not be the same player we’ve seen over the past six years, but he’s still Virgil van Dijk. He’s still a massive character, the team’s not the same when he doesn’t play and he’s still got a few good years still in him.

"It would be a big, big loss to the club, the fans and his team-mates too. He’s still world-class and I think it would be a huge loss for Liverpool if he left.”