Virgil van Dijk says Alexander-Arnold will be remembered fondly even if he leaves Liverpool after his goal brings Reds closer to Premier League title.

Arnold celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the English Premier League match between Leicester City and Liverpool at King Power Stadium in Leicester, central England, on April 20, 2025. Photo by Darren Staples/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has praised Trent Alexander-Arnold’s lasting impact at Anfield while acknowledging the growing uncertainty over the right-back’s future. With Alexander-Arnold’s contract set to expire at the end of June, speculation is mounting that he could leave Liverpool and join Spanish giants Real Madrid on a free transfer. The 26-year-old's match-winning goal against Leicester City on Sunday kept Liverpool firmly in the hunt for the Premier League title, yet his long-term plans remain unknown.

Alexander-Arnold's contract situation has become one of the most discussed topics surrounding Liverpool’s final weeks of the 2024–25 season. While teammates like Mohamed Salah and Van Dijk himself have put an end to speculation by signing fresh two-year extensions, Alexander-Arnold has remained silent publicly, fueling rumors that a move to La Liga could be on the horizon.

Van Dijk was candid when asked about Alexander-Arnold’s situation after the narrow win at the King Power Stadium, where Leicester’s relegation to the Championship was confirmed. "Whatever may happen in the future for him, that's something that he has to resolve with himself and the family," Van Dijk said. "But he's a Liverpool player at this point and he's important for our team."

Van Dijk: “He will always be remembered”

The Liverpool captain, who has formed a close bond with Alexander-Arnold since his arrival at the club, emphasized that no matter what happens, the right-back’s contribution to Liverpool’s modern era should not be forgotten.

"Since I joined the club, he has been a fantastic player and there's a lot of good things that he will always be remembered for if he decides to leave," Van Dijk added. "But listen, at this point, we don't know as a group what's going to happen."

His remarks underline the uncertainty surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s next step. Although there has been no official statement from either the club or the player, sources close to the situation have suggested Real Madrid are keen to make a formal offer should he become available.

A goal that could define a title race

Alexander-Arnold returned to action just in time to make a critical impact in Liverpool’s title challenge. His goal — a crisp right-footed finish that sealed a 1-0 victory over Leicester — not only sank the Foxes but also pushed Liverpool one step closer to securing a record-equalling 20th English league title.

The significance of the goal was not lost on Alexander-Arnold or the supporters. After scoring, he ripped off his shirt and sprinted toward the jubilant traveling fans, soaking in the moment that could prove decisive in the title race.

"It’s a big moment," said Van Dijk. "There's a lot of noise around him. And obviously everyone can argue if it's his own fault or it's just part of life nowadays. But whether he stays or leaves, we shouldn't take for granted that he gave us as a team the opportunity on Sunday to finish off."

The drama surrounding Alexander-Arnold’s potential departure adds another layer to what has already been an emotional and high-stakes season for Liverpool. Having already announced manager Jürgen Klopp’s decision to step down at the end of the campaign, Liverpool’s players are keen to send him off with one last major trophy.

Title within reach as Real Madrid rumors swirl

Following Sunday’s win, Liverpool are in pole position to clinch the Premier League title, depending on the result of Arsenal’s midweek fixture against Crystal Palace. Should Arsenal lose, Liverpool would be crowned champions. Even if the Gunners manage a draw or a win, Liverpool can wrap up the title at home next weekend when they host Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield.

The uncertainty around Alexander-Arnold’s contract looms over the final weeks of this campaign. Real Madrid, who have been monitoring the defender's situation for months, are reportedly preparing a lucrative offer to lure him to Spain. Known for their interest in top-level fullbacks, Madrid see Alexander-Arnold as a long-term successor to Dani Carvajal and a versatile addition capable of playing in midfield as well.

If the transfer goes through, it would mark the end of an era at Anfield. Alexander-Arnold, a product of Liverpool’s youth academy, has been instrumental in the club’s successes over the past decade. From Champions League triumphs to domestic league dominance, his presence has been integral.

A legacy regardless of what’s next

Whether Alexander-Arnold chooses to renew his commitment to Liverpool or opts for a fresh challenge abroad, Van Dijk and the club’s fanbase seem united in their appreciation for his contribution. His vision, passing range, and set-piece ability have redefined the role of the modern fullback.

He has not only played a central role in Liverpool's domestic and European glories but has also become a symbol of the club’s investment in homegrown talent. At just 26, his legacy at Anfield is already established, and should he depart, it will be on terms shaped by a career full of defining moments — not least his goal at Leicester, which may be remembered as the one that delivered another league title.

For now, though, Alexander-Arnold remains a Liverpool player, and with one or two decisive matches left in the season, his focus appears to be fully on delivering success. Real Madrid may await, but until the final whistle blows on the 2024–25 campaign, Liverpool’s number 66 has one more job to finish.