Klopp in Madrid Talks: Rings Alexander-Arnold and Haaland as Real Madrid Move Looms

Jurgen Klopp has made contact with both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Erling Haaland in what appears to be groundwork ahead of his anticipated appointment at Real Madrid, according to reports emerging from Spain.

The German's name has circulated as a leading candidate to take the helm at the Bernabeu following the sacking of Xabi Alonso. Los Blancos dismissed the former Bayer Leverkusen boss after a 3-2 Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona earlier this month, with the club also trailing their rivals by four points in the La Liga standings at that time. Tensions had reportedly simmered within the dressing room over Alonso's stewardship.

Alvaro Arbeloa stepped into the breach on an interim basis, though speculation persists that Real Madrid could seek a fresh managerial face come the summer window.

Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg confirmed in December that Klopp would seriously entertain the prospect of managing Real Madrid, despite his ongoing commitment to the Red Bull project. The reporter noted that the allure of the Spanish giants holds significant appeal for the former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund manager.

Spanish outlets now suggest Klopp remains the frontrunner for the position, with preliminary discussions already underway regarding his potential arrival to replace Arbeloa at season's end.

The 57-year-old is reportedly seeking complete autonomy over squad planning as a key condition of acceptance. Part of that vision appears to involve reconnecting with familiar faces—most notably Alexander-Arnold, the England right-back currently sidelined through injury at Madrid. Klopp maintains a strong bond with the defender, instrumental during their trophy-laden years at Anfield, and hopes to reassure him about his future amid speculation over a possible exit.

Beyond squad morale, Klopp used his conversation with Alexander-Arnold to take the temperature of the dressing room and gauge the current atmosphere at the club.

The German also placed a call to Manchester City's prolific Norwegian striker Haaland, this season's Premier League leading scorer. Klopp views the 24-year-old as a prime target for his first recruitment drive at the Bernabeu. Sources suggest he has already indicated to Real Madrid hierarchy that he would sanction the sale of Vinicius Junior to fund Haaland's arrival, a deal valued at approximately €175m.

During their conversation, Klopp made clear his enthusiasm for a potential working relationship with the City forward.