Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has quashed speculation that the fate of Trent Alexander-Arnold influenced the right-back’s performance against Manchester United on Sunday.

Alexander-Arnold struggled during the 2-2 draw, giving the ball away in the build-up to United’s opening goal and failing to make a significant impact before being substituted in the 86th minute for Conor Bradley.

In the days leading up to the game, reports emerged that Liverpool had rejected an approach from Real Madrid, who were interested in signing the England international during the January transfer window.

This led to increased speculation about the defender’s future, especially with his contract expiring in the summer.

Despite the rumours, van Dijk insisted the 25-year-old’s performances have not been affected by off-field distractions.

When asked if the transfer speculation had affected Alexander-Arnold, van Dijk said: “No. I’m fine with that.

Mohamed Salah posted this photo of himself, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold…

What does that mean? 👀 #BBCfootball pic.twitter.com/OZge8aSgkI

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 6, 2025

“Trent has his own people around him, his family, and we’re there too.

“He wants to perform as well as he can, like all of us. That is the main focus. “

The speculation surrounding Alexander-Arnold is part of a wider narrative at Liverpool, with Van Dijk and Mohamed Salah also approaching the final months of their contracts.

The trio will be eligible to negotiate with overseas clubs starting this month.

Van Dijk previously said in October that contract extension talks had begun but United revealed after the game that there had been no new developments regarding his situation.

Salah, meanwhile, recently admitted that talks on a new deal are far from progress. “We are a long way from any progress,” Salah said earlier this month.

Despite ongoing contract disputes and transfer rumours, Salah posted a photo on social media after Sunday’s match, showing himself alongside Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk.