Andoni Iraola has moved to quash speculation over Alexis Mac Allister's future at Liverpool, insisting the Argentine midfielder remains a cornerstone of his midfield despite persistent links to Real Madrid. The Basque coach praised Mac Allister's impact following his World Cup final run with Argentina, while outlining the club's genuine recruitment priorities ahead of the transfer window's closure.
"Alexis has been one of the best players of the club last year," Iraola said. "It is normal that other clubs want our best players, but I want to keep my good players. I'm looking forward more to signing new players than losing the ones we have here." Mac Allister, who holds a two-year contract, has been courted by Madrid in recent weeks, yet Iraola's comments signal Liverpool's determination to retain their midfield linchpin as they rebuild following summer departures.
Defining Transfer Targets
The manager was far more forthcoming about Liverpool's "obvious" transfer needs, particularly in wide areas. The exits of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate have created clear gaps across the squad. "We definitely need to sign a winger," Iraola stated bluntly. "There are other situations where we will have to analyse what the market gives us, what the cost is, and how we see the players we already have." This measured approach reflects Liverpool's pragmatic stance: the Reds will pursue targets opportunistically rather than panic-buying.
Injury concerns add another layer of complexity to recruitment planning. Several trusted players remain sidelined, forcing Iraola to weigh immediate depth against long-term squad development. The Pre-season tour of the United States—featuring clashes against Sunderland, Leeds United, and Wrexham—offers crucial time to assess younger talent and integrate recent signings Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz. Mac Allister's return to full training will be staggered as he completes his break following Argentina's Copa America commitments, meaning his availability may also influence the final days of the transfer window.
