Trent Alexander-Arnold has endured a turbulent spell at Real Madrid since leaving Liverpool last summer and could now be facing a fresh £30 million problem. According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Madrid are considering signing a new right-back this summer, with Dani Carvajal's contract set to expire at the end of the season.

AS Roma's Wesley Franca is said to be a strong option to replace Carvajal, with early movement already taking place ahead of the summer. It's also noted that Madrid would be willing to put around €35 million (£30m) on the table to sign the Brazilian.

The former Liverpool captain, Alexander-Arnold has already been linked with a move away from the Bernabeu, with Liverpool rivals Manchester City monitoring the situation closely ahead of the summer, according to TEAMtalk. Bayern Munich are also said to be 'maintaining a watching brief.'

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He made his return on Sunday, coming off the bench after recovering from a hamstring issue during Madrid's 2-0 La Liga win over Valencia in La Liga. However, he now faces added competition at right-back, with academy graduate David Jimenez starting ahead of him before his return from injury.

And while a potential departure for Carvajal could open the door for Alexander‑Arnold to play a more prominent role next season, Defensa Central report that Madrid's preference is still for Carvajal to remain for one more year to avoid spending on a new right‑back.

However, the player is believed to be unhappy with a secondary role.

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Even though interim head coach Alvaro Arbeloa chose not to select Carvajal in the matchday squad against Valencia, he explained his decision and emphasised the defender's importance to the dressing room.

"I don't need to explain the importance of Dani," Arbeloa said. "He's the one who always has something to say before and after matches.

"It's very important for the players to have a reference like him in the dressing room, and I'm sure he's going to find his best form. With the patience and effort we're putting in and his dedication, I'm confident that he’s getting closer to regaining his relevance."

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