Real Madrid swoop for sensational double signing

Real Madrid have made a habit of playing the long game, and following what can only be described as the conclusion of the Kylian Mbappé ‘saga’ in the summer, sights are now set on two of Europe’s brightest stars: Alphonso Davies and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

While their names have been whispered in the halls of Santiago Bernabéu for many months, the feeling is that the chances of these two donning the iconic white jersey come 2025 is growing. And given that both are within the last year of their respective contracts, and therefore would come with no transfer fee requirement, Madrid could well pull off one of the most impressive double swoops in recent memory.

Alphonso Davies

The name of the Canadian has maintained its place in Los Blancos’ wish list for some time. For months, the club has quietly maneuvered behind the scenes, preparing for the moment when the Bayern Munich left-back could legally sign a pre-contract agreement. With Bayern refusing to entertain offers under €25 million (c.$28 million), Madrid’s strategy became clear: wait. Rather than splashing the cash now, the Spanish giants are prepared to see out the 2024-25 season, confident that their patience will pay off when Davies becomes a free agent.

And what a win it would be for Madrid’s transfer team. Bayern’s once-impenetrable negotiating stance has softened, and while the Germans hoped to hang on to their man, Davies seems set to leave when his contract expires. Madrid, quietly smirking in the background, are more than happy to play the waiting game, knowing that when January 1, 2025, rolls around, the Canadian star will be free to sign on the dotted line.

Trent Alexander-Arnold

Alexander-Arnold’s stock has been on the rise again after a mixed spell with the English national team. Once dismissed by Gareth Southgate, the Liverpool star appears to have been rejuvenated under interim England boss Lee Carsley. While others, including Declan Rice and Jack Grealish, have grabbed more headlines in the recent games, Trent’s performances have been impressive, albeit against inferior opposition. With five chances created against Finland and seven across two international fixtures, Alexander-Arnold is proving once again that his right foot is a treasure. Something that the Anfield faithful have known for some time.

And it’s fair to say that Madrid’s recruitment team have been monitoring him closely. Whispers of a move to the Spanish capital continue to grow louder. With his contract set to expire in June 2025, Madrid could look to tempt the full-back on a free transfer. Compatriot Jude Bellingham’s friendship with Alexander-Arnold is blowing more breath into those rumours, with some pundits, like Reds legend Graeme Souness, seeing a move to Madrid as the only logical next step. Swapping the chants of the famous Kop of your boyhood club may be impossible to find elsewhere, but turning out in white at the Santiago Bernabéu is surely an appetising option.

Liverpool, Bayern and Barcelona obstacles

Liverpool, of course, are keen to extend the Englishman’s contract, with talks of a new deal running until 2029. But Madrid know a good opportunity when they see one, and with a right-back as complete as Alexander-Arnold on the market, to take over from veteran star Dani Carvajal, they would likely do what it takes to beat other interested clubs to his signature. Barcelona and Bayern Munich have been talked of as contenders but Madrid are expected to have the edge, although the Anfield bond may be too strong.

If both Davies and Alexander-Arnold do arrive, Madrid could soon boast one of the most formidable full-back pairings in the world. While Trent offers incredible chance creation and can control games from deep, combine that with Davies’ blistering pace that lets him join in with attacks while speedily returning to defensive duties.

For now, Madrid are biding their time, but when the opportunity arises, expect Florentino Pérez and his team to strike with their trademark precision.