Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has defended Trent Alexander-Arnold after his poor display against Manchester United, rejecting suggestions that Real Madrid's interest has had a negative impact on his team-mate.
Alexander-Arnold was at fault for Lisandro Martinez's opener in Sunday's 2-2 draw against Manchester United at Anfield, falling well below his usual high standards.
The right-back's sloppy performance comes during a long-running debate over his future with the Premier League leaders.
The 26-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season, meaning he can now sign a pre-contract agreement with an overseas club.
Spanish giants Real have reportedly made a bid to sign him but Liverpool are believed to have rejected their approach.
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