Liverpool have reportedly identified Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Alexis Mac Allister as a potential transfer target for the summer window.
While Mac Allister's progression at the Amex Stadium has always been on an upward curve, his reputation has sky-rocketed during 2022-23.
As well as chipping in with seven goals from 22 appearances for an improving Brighton team, the 24-year-old starred for Argentina during their World-Cup-winning campaign.
Mac Allister made six starts during the tournament in Qatar, including contributing an assist during the final, and it only added to the feeling that the playmaker may soon move to a bigger club.
Although the player has insisted that he is 'in no rush' to depart the Seagulls, his father has acknowledged that interest is expected later in 2023.
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Speaking to TyCSports, Carlos Mac Allister said: "For now he is in Brighton. It seems to me a very good thing that he has returned from the World Cup and has not despaired of leaving.
"We all know that in July there will be chances to leave. But prior to the World Cup, Alexis renewed his contract so that the club also has the opportunity to make a big sale, so that many can reach out to Brighton. That's the idea."
According to Football Insider, Liverpool are one of the teams who are monitoring any developments with Mac Allister's future.
The Merseyside giants are said to have registered an interest in negotiating a deal as Jurgen Klopp targets a refresh of his midfield.
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On three occasions this season, Mac Allister has impressed against Liverpool, featuring in a 3-3 draw at Anfield before starring in victories over Klopp's side at the Amex Stadium in the Premier League and FA Cup respectively.
However, Liverpool allegedly face the prospect of paying in the region of €75m (£65.8m) if they wish to win the race for Mac Allister's signature.
Manchester City have also been heavily linked with the player as they face the prospect of having to replace Ilkay Gundogan, who may depart the Etihad Stadium at the end of his contract in the summer.
Chelsea were also credited as admirers at one stage, but the Blues appear unlikely to re-enter the race given their recent splurge on players and options already presented at Stamford Bridge.
Darren Plant
