Jude Bellingham surprises Trent Alexander-Arnold amid Real Madrid move speculation

England stars Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold have rekindled their close friendship as they reported for international duty. The duo have developed a strong bond since becoming teammates at the Three Lions.

Their relationship has strengthened suggestions that they could also become colleagues at the club. Bellingham's Real Madrid have been repeatedly linked with Alexander-Arnold, whose contract with Liverpool expires next summer.

For now, they are focusing on the Nations League matches against Greece and Finland. The England team gathered at St George's Park on Monday, which also marked Alexander-Arnold's 26th birthday.

A large card was left at reception to mark the occasion. Arriving first, Bellingham plotted to surprise his friend by hiding behind him – waiting more than 20 minutes to carry out the prank.

When asked if Alexander-Arnold returned the favor on his birthday at Euro 2024, he told the English YouTube channel: “No, I got a cake that was that big “. [forms a small circle with his hand] and there was a candle in it. It is what it is.”

Upon arrival, Alexander-Arnold seemed to detect Bellingham's presence, meaning the jump scare didn't really have the desired effect. They both burst out laughing and shared a warm embrace.

Bellingham then playfully asked, “How old are you now?” To which Alexander-Arnold jokingly replied “22” before they both smiled at the camera.

The two are often inseparable during international camps, with Alexander-Arnold previously revealing that Bellingham was his closest friend in the England set-up. That's not what Liverpool will want to hear, with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk also in the final months of their deals.

Speculation over a possible free transfer for Alexander-Arnold to Real has intensified after first-choice right-back Dani Carvajal suffered a torn ACL in last weekend's win over Villarreal. The 32-year-old is expected to be out for at least eight months, which could prompt them to find a long-term replacement.