The summer transfer window is shaping up to be a period of significant transition at Anfield. In a development that few could have predicted a year ago, Liverpool are reportedly open to parting ways with World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister.
According to a report by The Times’ Paul Joyce, the 27-year-old Argentine midfielder “could be moved on” this coming summer.
This potential departure would represent a ruthless tactical and financial pivot by the club, with the proceeds likely being used to fund a move for a newer, more dynamic model in the engine room.
Shifting priorities in the transfer market
Despite the shocking speculation surrounding Mac Allister and continued interest from Inter Milan in Curtis Jones, sources maintain that the midfield is not actually Liverpool’s number-one priority this summer.
The Guardian’s reports that the recruitment team is currently focusing all its energy on securing two new wingers and a right-back. However, once the club secures those primary targets, Liverpool still intend to enter the market for at least one midfielder and a high-caliber centre-back.
Selling Mac Allister would significantly boost the war chest they need to execute this ambitious overhaul.
A stalled future and the Real Madrid links
Mac Allister’s current contract at Anfield runs until 2028, but talks over an extension have completely stalled. While Ryan Gravenberch put pen to paper on a new six-year deal in March, and negotiations are actively ongoing with Dominik Szoboszlai‘s camp, there is currently no extension on the horizon for Liverpool’s No. 10.
| Player | Contract Status / Recent Activity |
| Ryan Gravenberch | Signed a new 6-year contract in March |
| Dominik Szoboszlai | Active contract extension negotiations ongoing |
| Alexis Mac Allister | Contract expires 2028; contract talks stalled |
This contractual limbo has inevitably fueled intense speculation. European giants Real Madrid have repeatedly pursued the playmaker, positioning themselves as long-term suitors.
However, Mac Allister’s father and agent, Carlos Mac Allister, has moved swiftly to pour cold water on the rumours, publicly insisting that “the information circulating about Alexis is incorrect” and that no formal discussions with the Spanish giants have taken place.
Mac Allister has been a cornerstone for Liverpool since his move from Brighton three years ago—a deal worth an initial £35 million that could reach up to £55 million with add-ons. He has already racked up a grueling 150 appearances for the Reds.
However, there is a growing sense within the club that this heavy workload has taken a severe physical toll. Last season was statistically and visually the worst campaign of his Anfield career:
Beyond that, though, Liverpool could still enter the market for at least one midfielder as well as a centre-back.
International reset: The World Cup awaits
While his club future hangs in the balance, Mac Allister’s immediate focus is on international glory. He earned his first minutes of Argentina’s pre-tournament preparations on Sunday night, coming off the bench in the second half of a comfortable 2-0 victory over Honduras at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas.
With Lionel Messi rested on the bench, Lautaro Martinez opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 37th minute, before Giuliano Simeone sealed the win early in the second half.
Liverpool fans will be desperately hoping that a full summer on the World Cup stage beginning with Argentina’s Group J opener against Algeria on June 17 will provide the midfielder with the mental and physical reset he sorely needs.
ReadLiverpoolFC Verdict
Selling Alexis Mac Allister would have sounded like absolute madness twelve months ago, but football moves fast. The reality is that Mac Allister looked exhausted last season. Playing 150 games in three years for club and country has clearly sapped his mobility, and in a midfield that demands high-energy transitions and intense physical coverage, he looked like a square peg in a round hole.
If Liverpool smell an opportunity to maximise his market value before a permanent decline sets in. A fee upwards of £50-60 million would easily fund a move for a younger, more dynamic profile like Adam Wharton.
It feels incredibly harsh given how vital Mac Allister was during his first two seasons, but if Liverpool want to bridge the gap to the top of the Premier League, these are the exact kind of ruthless, unsentimental decisions the club needs to make.
