Real Madrid’s 5-2 thrashing at the hands of Barcelona on Sunday has sparked a dramatic change of transfer policy at the Bernabeu that could see Trent Alexander-Arnold leave Liverpool for the Spanish capital before the end of month.

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has defended Trent Alexander-Arnold and believes the reaction he received after the draw with Manchester United is the “biggest compliment” he could get. Alexander-Arnold was below his usual standards during the 2-2 draw with Liverpool’s rivals and plenty of criticism was aimed in his direction for his performances.

Former Liverpool starlet Bobby Adekanye - who allegedly did not see eye-to-eye with Trent Alexander-Arnold during their time at Anfield - joined Turkish side Amedspor last week

Arnold’s Resilience Amid Real Madrid LinksLiverpool manager Arne Slot has publicly backed Trent Alexander-Arnold, describing the criticism aimed at the full-back

Yes, Liverpool’s right-back struggled. But it’s more likely a bad day at the office than a sign that Alexander-Arnold's mind is elsewhere

Real Madrid remain relentless in their pursuit of signing Trent Alexander-Arnold either this month for a reduced fee or on a free transfer at the end of the season

If the Liverpool supporters’ reaction was more mixed six days earlier, they celebrated him now. He was serenaded as “the Scouser in the team” when substituted. He had scored his 21st Liverpool goal; include his assists and he has been directly involved in 105. Which, for a right-back in the middle of his career, is remarkable.

Trent Alexander-Arnold was criticised for his defensive performance against Manchester United in the Premier League amid reports that Real Madrid had made a bid to bring him to LaLiga in January. This browser is not supported,

Liverpool manager Arne Slot praises Trent Alexander-Arnold for brushing off last week's poor performance against Manchester United with an influential display in Saturday's 4-0 FA Cup victory over Accrington Stanley.