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TRENT Alexander-Arnold will leave Liverpool when his contract expires at the end of the season, saying it was the “hardest decision” of his life ahead of a widely expected move to Real Madrid.

Alexander-Arnold is out of contract at the end of June and the England right-back’s future had been the subject of intense debate throughout Liverpool’s charge to the Premier League title this season.

The 26-year-old posted on X: “After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season.

“This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life.”

Alexander-Arnold’s contract talks over a free transfer switch to Real are reported to be at an advanced stage. According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Alexander-Arnold has a verbal agreement with Real to join on a five-year contract.

Alexander-Arnold adds: “I know many of you have wondered why or been frustrated that I haven’t spoken about this yet, but it was always my intention to keep my full focus on the team’s best interests, which was securing No.20.

“This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years. I will forever be in debt to you all. My love for this club will never die.”

Liverpool thanked Alexander-Arnold, who joined the club as a six-year-old, saying: “Alexander-Arnold will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success.”