Paul Merson has suggested that Liverpool fans should “be happy” for Trent Alexander-Arnold if the defender seals a move to Real Madrid without a transfer fee.
With his contract expiring in the summer, the Reds’ vice-captain is mulling over an offer from the La Liga champions. Amidst speculation and no new deal signed at his childhood team, Alexander-Arnold has faced criticism from parts of the Liverpool supporter base.
Yet, the ex-Arsenal attacker Merson recommends that the Anfield faithful refrain from hostility towards Alexander-Arnold, even hinting at parallels between Trent’s case and that of Manchester United’s Antony, now on loan at Real Betis following a challenging period post his move from Ajax.
When quizzed on Sky Sports about any potential annoyance over losing Alexander-Arnold for nothing, Merson responded: “I don’t know why, he’s come through the ranks there. I don’t know what the problem is.
“He’s come through, been unbelievable, he’s won everything there and he’s going to go on a free. Look at Antony, Man Utd bought him for £80 million ($100 million) and he’s out on loan. Nobody says a dickie bird.
“This lad has been absolutely outstanding for Liverpool. He’s not come in as a £60 million flop. He’s come through the ranks, been phenomenal. It’s Real Madrid, he’s going to win the Premier League with Liverpool again and I don’t see a problem with it.”
Merson remarked: “I don’t know anyone in the world of football who has ever turned Real Madrid down. Fair play to the lad, good luck to him, Liverpool fans should be happy for him. He’s give everything for the club and I think he deserves that move.”