Valencia has backed Manchester United to explore a surprise move for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has found limited game time at Real Madrid since arriving on a free transfer last summer. With new Madrid boss Jose Mourinho reshaping the squad and reportedly closing in on Denzel Dumfries, the former Liverpool defender’s future in Spain has become uncertain.
Key Takeaways:
- Antonio Valencia backs Manchester United to target Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has struggled for minutes at Real Madrid since his free transfer last summer.
- Valencia praises Alexander-Arnold’s technical quality and experience, saying his Premier League and Champions League pedigree makes him an ideal fit for United.
- Despite transfer talk, Valencia insists Diogo Dalot should not leave, highlighting his importance after 36 appearances, 1 goal, and 3 assists in the 2025-26 season.
- Valencia predicts a bold Premier League shake-up, tipping Manchester United to finish above rivals including Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Newcastle.
Man Utd told to target Alexander-Arnold
Valencia strongly believes Alexander-Arnold’s skill set would suit United’s needs, especially given his experience at the highest level. Speaking to Hajper, the former United full-back said: “Trent is a player I like a lot. He has a very good right foot, he crosses well, and he is a player who defends well. He would be very good for Manchester United. He knows the Premier League. He knows what it means to win the Champions League and the Premier League. He is a passionate player, and I would like to see him at Manchester United.”
Defensive stability and Dalot’s future
While endorsing Alexander-Arnold, Valencia also stressed the importance of retaining current right-back Diogo Dalot, who remains under contract until 2028 and featured heavily in the 2025-26 season with 36 appearances, 1 goal, and 3 assists.
When asked about squad changes, Valencia said: “Do not make it difficult for me, because I would not like Diogo Dalot to leave. Manchester always have to renew the squad, and this is a team that we hope can have a good Premier League season and win it. But in terms of a right-back, I have not really thought about which player would be ready to play for Manchester United in that position… I just hope that whoever comes in can be the best possible option. And I hope Dalot does not leave, of course.”
Bold Premier League title prediction
Looking beyond transfers, Valencia expressed strong belief in Manchester United’s future trajectory, suggesting a major shift in the Premier League standings could be coming.
He predicted: “Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, City and Newcastle. That is how I think the Premier League will finish.” If that forecast comes true, it would signal United’s first league title since 2013, ending a long wait since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
