Manchester United Warned Against Pursuing Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister
Manchester United have been firmly advised to steer clear of a potential £55 million move for Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, with critics asserting such a transfer "would never work." The Red Devils were recently linked with a surprising swoop for the Argentine star as they gear up for the summer transfer window, aiming to bolster their midfield options.
Midfield Reinforcements on United's Radar
United are anticipated to sign at least one midfielder this summer, having targeted that position previously. The squad is already bracing for the departure of Casemiro, who confirmed last month he will leave Old Trafford at season's end. In their search, Manchester United have shown admiration for players like Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, and Brighton's Carlos Baleba.
Reports emerged last week suggesting United's interest in Mac Allister, who has been rumored to consider a move away from Anfield. Since his £55 million transfer from Brighton in 2023, Mac Allister has made over 100 appearances for Liverpool, contributing to their Premier League and EFL Cup victories.
Parker's Blunt Assessment
Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker expressed shock at the speculation, stating unequivocally that a move for Mac Allister is ill-advised. "My first thought is just no, no, no. Not in a million years," Parker told Pariurix. He questioned the logic behind the potential signing, noting, "I haven't seen enough reasons why they would get Mac Allister. The club needs a midfielder, maybe even two, but would he be one of those two? I think the answer would be no."
Parker emphasized that Mac Allister likely has no desire to join United, given his current club allegiance. "It would be a big no for me, and I am 100 percent sure that he doesn't even want it to happen either because of where he is playing. He has never said he wants to play for Manchester United. No one would ever be that silly to say that. It would never work out, not in a million years."
Mac Allister's Current Situation
The 27-year-old World Cup winner has faced a less effective season, still seeking his first Premier League goal. Liverpool's title defense has faltered, with the team sitting sixth in the table. Mac Allister's father, Carlos, addressed the rumors, saying, "Alexis is only thinking about Liverpool at the moment. We are waiting for an offer to renew his contract. We will see what the club's plan is." When asked about a potential move if no extension is agreed, he replied, "We'll wait and see what happens with the renewal. That's all."
Despite the challenges, Mac Allister recently helped Liverpool secure a 3-0 FA Cup win over Brighton, advancing to the fifth round where they will face Wolves. The Reds continue to compete in the FA Cup, needing to overcome top teams like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City to claim a ninth title.
Broader Transfer Context
This advice comes amid other transfer discussions, such as calls for United to sign a £37 million Chelsea star and analysis of Arsenal's squad decisions. As the summer window approaches, Manchester United's recruitment strategy will be closely watched, with midfield reinforcements a key priority. The club's fans and pundits alike will be eager to see how they navigate these complex transfer dynamics.