Liverpool might be ready to accept defeat in the battle to keep Trent Alexander-Arnold at the club this season ahead of his contract expiry.
The England international will see his deal expire at the end of the season and there has been no progression on a renewal.
And after Real Madrid made him their top target ahead of next year's transfer window, Reds boss Arne Slot is beginning to accept he could lose one of his key players.
According to Marca, Liverpool are increasingly worried that an agreement over a new contract will not be found - allowing Real Madrid to pounce in January.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is out of contract at the end of the season at Liverpool
PA
From the first month of 2025, foreign clubs will be allowed to speak to the right-back over a pre-contract agreement and Liverpool cannot do anything about it.
Alexander-Arnold has spent his entire career at Liverpool, where he has won every prize including the Premier League and Champions League.
But for many players, a call from Real Madrid is very difficult to ignore.
Especially when one of the club's superstars messaging you is one of your best friends, with Jude Bellingham reportedly speaking to the right-back about life in Madrid.
JUST IN: Mike Tyson replacement plan takes shape as Jake Paul sent three-word message to save fight
The two have developed a close bond since the European Championship in the summer.
The report also goes on to state that Real Madrid have put in place a plan of action over the current international break to lay the groundwork on a formal offer.
And the Spanish giants believe Liverpool might conduct business in January to avoid losing the 26-year-old for nothing at the end of the season.
READ MORE: Transgender athletes to be BANNED from professional cricket in England with controversial catch
Trent Alexander-Arnold already has a good friend at Real Madrid in Jude Bellingham
PA
The Reds are facing something of a mini-exodus with fellow key players Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk also out of contract next summer.
It could leave the club with three massive departures, though it should also be stated that the trio could all pen new deals at Anfield.
Nevertheless, with time running out to offer suitable contracts, Liverpool chiefs are sweating on their futures which could force them into the transfer window.
LATEST SPORT NEWS:
Arne Slot could lose three key players at Liverpool for nothing
PA
Real Madrid have made Alexander-Arnold their to target but they are keen on other Premier League superstars, as well.
Manchester City star Rodri is another player they are courting, as well as Arsenal's William Saliba.
Reports also state that their back-up option to Alexandern-Arnold is Bayer Leverkusen's Jeremie Frimpong.