Liverpool fans hope Jordan Henderson gave Trent Alexander-Arnold clear contract instruction

Former Liverpool captain n was spotted at the AXA Training Centre this week, sparking hopes among fans that he might have had a word with one ex-colleague.

Henderson wrapped up his 12-year stint e by moving to Saudi Pro League team Al-Ettifaq at the beginning of the previous season. His ill-fated Middle East adventure lasted only a few months before he made a return to Europe with Dutch heavyweights Ajax in January.

After being left out of the squad for Ajax's Europa League stalemate with Slavia Praha this week, Henderson seized the chance to catch up with some old friends at Liverpool's training base.

He was photographed hugging Virgil van Dijk, exchanging pleasantries with the coaching staff, having a chat with Diogo Jota and deep in conversation

That final interaction has piqued the interest of fans, as Alexander-Arnold is yet to renew his contract at Anfield. As things stand, the right-back will be out of contract in July and Real Madrid are reportedly trying to tempt him away from his childhood club.

Liverpool's Instagram post about Henderson's comeback was flooded with comments from fans hoping he had managed to persuade Alexander-Arnold to stay put.

"Coming to talk some sense into his mate Trent and get him to sign a new deal [fingers crossed emoji]," quipped @vickery135 on social media. Echoing that sentiment, @saintfrancys chimed in with: "I swear he came to talk sense into Trent [crying laughing emojis]," while @hmdd9.7 added with a chuckle: "Lmao man came back to sort out Trent [crying laughing emoji]".

In the midst of speculation, even if Henderson has had a word with Alexander-Arnold, Madrid's allure is strong, bolstered by England compatriot Jude Bellingham's raving success at the Bernabeu.

The local lad from Birmingham City has thrived since his spectacular move there, leaving Alexander-Arnold, who hits 26 next week, potentially eyeing a similar move to make the most of his peak years on the pitch.

And the concerns at Anfield are mounting; Alexander-Arnold isn't the sole titan at Liverpool mulling an exit. The Kop is biting its nails as Arne Slot steps in as manager with both Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk nearing contract expiry and without any hint of renewal.

Van Dijk has stoked the embers of transfer rumours himself, expressing his deep affection for Anfield but also hinting at change. "Whatever happens now, Anfield has a special place in my heart," he confided to Sky Sports back in August. And it's been successful. Let's see what happens."