Wes Brown urges Man United to break 17-year transfer rule for Trent Alexander-Arnold
Wes Brown: Man United should sign Trent Alexander-Arnold

Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown has urged his old club to consider a shock move for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has struggled for game time at Real Madrid since leaving Liverpool last summer. The 46-year-old, who made 362 appearances for United, believes the England international would be a perfect fit for Michael Carrick's attacking style.

Alexander-Arnold's Struggles at Real Madrid

Alexander-Arnold severed his two-decade connection with Liverpool last summer, joining Real Madrid on a free transfer. The move angered Liverpool fans, but the 27-year-old has endured an inconsistent start in Spain, starting just 14 league fixtures last season. His lack of game time contributed to his exclusion from Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the current World Cup in North America.

The exit of long-standing captain Dani Carvajal earlier this summer appeared to clear the path for Alexander-Arnold to establish himself as first-choice right-back. However, the return of legendary manager Jose Mourinho and the expected signing of Inter Milan wing-back Denzel Dumfries could complicate his situation, potentially relegating him further down the pecking order.

Wide Pickt banner — collaborative shopping lists app for Telegram, phone mockup with grocery list

Brown's Verdict on a Controversial Transfer

Speaking to Compare.bet, Brown said: "Manchester United would be a very good move for Trent Alexander-Arnold. What a player. He would really help how Michael Carrick wants to attack teams. I think it is clear he is not really enjoying himself at Real Madrid. He would be a great player to have, and I think anyone in the Premier League would want to sign him. Who wouldn't have Trent in their team?"

Brown acknowledged the intense rivalry between Liverpool and United, noting that no player has moved directly between the two clubs since Phil Chisnall switched from Old Trafford to Anfield in 1964. Michael Owen was the last player to represent both sides, joining United in 2009 after leaving Liverpool in 2004. "I'm not sure he would be keen on United – Liverpool fans definitely wouldn't be happy!" Brown added. "But it's not out of the question. Luis Figo left Barcelona for Real Madrid. Michael Owen played for United. If he doesn't see his future at Real Madrid, we'll have to wait and see."

Potential Impact on United's Season

Signing Alexander-Arnold would be one of the most contentious transfers in contemporary English football, given the historic rivalry. However, Brown believes United would be unwise not to explore a potential transfer should the chance arise. The defender's attacking prowess could significantly boost Carrick's system, which relies on width and creativity from full-backs.

Thousands of Manchester United fans upgraded their matchday experience last season through official packages available at Seat Unique for the 26/27 Premier League season.

Pickt after-article banner — collaborative shopping lists app with family illustration