Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has been advised to leave Anfield for the Santiago Bernabeu, with former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez explaining why such a move would benefit both the player and Los Blancos.

Alexander-Arnold, 26, is out of contract this summer, and while Liverpool are pushing to extend his stay, reports suggest that a move to Madrid is becoming an increasingly realistic possibility. Now, Benitez has given his thoughts on why the switch would be the perfect fit for the England international.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the former Champions League-winning coach explained how Real Madrid’s attacking style would maximize Alexander-Arnold’s strengths.

“For an offensive defender in an offensive team, you have more chances to make assists and to create situations in attack that will be good for him as a player,” Benitez said. “He is doing that at Liverpool so it is not a surprise, but with Real Madrid, you can guarantee he will do that for years.”

Benitez, who managed Madrid in 2015, also acknowledged that Liverpool fans would want their vice-captain to remain at Anfield but insisted that a move to the Spanish capital would benefit both the player and Los Blancos.

“As a Liverpool fan, you will say if he stays, it is much better because he will give us something special, but if he goes, as a Real Madrid kid all my life, it will be good for Real Madrid and him,” he added.

With just months left on his current deal, Alexander-Arnold has a massive decision to make regarding his future. While Liverpool will do everything possible to convince him to stay, Real Madrid could offer him the chance to become a key part of their next generation.

With Dani Carvajal turning 33 this year and no long-term successor secured, Madrid could see Alexander-Arnold as the perfect signing to strengthen their right flank. If Benitez’s words prove accurate, Madridistas could soon see one of the world’s best attacking full-backs lining up in white at the Bernabeu.