'I hope Trent Alexander-Arnold doesn't do what I did - but Real Madrid will be tough to pass'

Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen has opened up on the transfer speculation linking Trent Alexander-Arnold with a move to Real Madrid — a switch he made himself in 2004 .

Owen says he does not want to see the Liverpool number 66 depart but has admitted that the Reds vice-captain might have something to think about if the Spanish giant makes a serious play for him. As it stands, Alexander-Arnold only has a year left on his contract at Anfield with talks potentially soon to take place.

"With Trent Alexander-Arnold and the Real Madrid speculation, I was put in a position during my career in which I had to make a quick decision in a week or so on my future and it was a tricky one," Owen told Casino Hawks .

READ MORE: 5 things spotted in Liverpool training including Andy Robertson boost as Arne Slot squad grows
READ MORE: Liverpool transfer news LIVE: Martin Zubimendi decision, Trent Alexander-Arnold talks, Anthony Gordon latest

"Obviously Real Madrid at the moment are the best team in Europe, they are the biggest team in the world and have that iconic kit and their players… it's the best stage in Europe. I had a similar thing at that stage of my career and I decided that it was an opportunity that I couldn't pass up.

"I don't know if it’s an opportunity for Trent or a possibility but he'd have a lot to think about if they came in for him. Having said that, he's so ingrained into Liverpool and the fans love him, he’s grown up with the club and it’s such a strong connection.

"It’s only Real Madrid that could make him have a think. If not then you’d have to assume he’ll be at Liverpool forever. I hope that is the case but he might have a decision to make."

Liverpool.com says: Real Madrid would be able to make anyone think twice, especially considering Alexander-Arnold's contract situation. But there is no reason to worry just yet.

Sporting director Richard Hughes has a lot on his plate at the moment with transfers but once the window closes at the end of the month, Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk all need new deals. That has to be a major priority.