Trent Alexander-Arnold has been issued a stark warning by Bournemouth right-back Alex Jimenez, who has openly admitted that returning to Real Madrid is his 'dream'. The 20-year-old Spaniard, who came through the Real Madrid academy, spent over a decade at the club before leaving for AC Milan in 2024. He joined Bournemouth on loan in 2025 and made the move permanent last month after impressing in the Premier League.
Jimenez's comments to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo will add to the pressure on Alexander-Arnold, who has struggled since his £8.4million move from Liverpool last June. The England international has been limited to 12 appearances in all competitions, with just one assist, as he battles for a starting spot at right-back. He has been behind Dani Carvajal and Federico Valverde in the pecking order, and emerging talent David Jimenez has also impressed.
Real Madrid captain Carvajal is out of contract this summer, potentially opening the door for a new signing. Alex Jimenez, young, homegrown, and thriving in England, could be a genuine option. The club has previously recruited from Bournemouth, signing defender Dean Huijsen for £50m last summer.
Alexander-Arnold returned from a two-month injury layoff as a substitute in Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Valencia on Sunday. His first outing under new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who replaced the sacked Xabi Alonso, will be crucial as he aims to secure a consistent place in the starting lineup. With intense competition and high expectations in Madrid, any failure to nail down his role could leave his long-term future uncertain.
