Liverpool have enjoyed a near-dream first season under the tutelage of Arne Slot . It’s only a matter of time before the Reds lift the Premier League trophy, allowing the Dutchman to become just the second man to claim the title as Liverpool boss in the modern era. And while the Champions League , Carabao Cup and FA Cup campaigns might not have gone the way fans will have been hoping, that does certainly not take away from what a thrilling campaign it has been. Attention will now start turning to next season as the Reds go into the second-half of 2025 as defending champions. Club chiefs are already putting thought into what the squad could look like next term with questions still hanging over the future of their three contract rebels. But there appears to have been a major development over the past 24 hours. Get caught up on the standout headlines from Merseyside: Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold is edging towards a switch to Real Madrid as an Anfield exit grows ever nearer. The defender is out of contract at the end of the season and there is no sign of an extended deal. And according to reports, it appears that the Liverpool academy graduate has already decided his next club. It is suggested that talks are ongoing with Spanish giants Real Madrid, who are long-term admirers of him. Sky Sports Switzerland report that he has finally agreed personal terms with the club and will sign a lucrative five-year deal at the Bernabeu. And it is reported that Liverpool are already eyeing Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong as a successor. On the topic of Real Madrid, Turkish playmaker Arda Guler has offered a fresh take on his spat with Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai. The midfielder shushed his opponent during a Nations League meeting, with the Hungarian firing back with a "1088" message - referencing the number of minutes he has played for Real this term. Taking to social media, Guler replied: “This guy is a joke. Isn't 6 goals enough to shut you up?" Guler's words were also accompanied by a shushing face emoji. And he has now said he is determined to be a success with Real despite Szoboszlai's dig. “Madrid gave me a plan and I still believe in it," the Turkey international said. “I'm sure I'll succeed at Real Madrid, I've even bought a house in Madrid. I work very hard and I'm always ready to play. I love Real Madrid fans, and their support means a lot to me. "I'm very grateful. I came to Real Madrid to play and be an important part of this team. And I won’t stop fighting until I achieve that." Who should Liverpool sign in the summer? Share your thoughts in the comments below Ex-Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock has leapt to the defence of Alexander-Arnold amid fresh reports over this future. "Can’t believe the negativity directed towards Trent Alexander-Arnold and his potential move away from LFC. I’ve seen comments like 'he should be ashamed' and he’s 'not loyal to the club' are deluded," Warnock wrote in a post on X. "He’s entitled to make his own choices and challenge himself in a different league and different country. He’s won everything with LFC, been an incredible servant to the club and should be given a great send off by the fans." Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.