Liverpool faces a big transfer setback as a Premier League rival thinks about making a surprising move for their top player.
Liverpool have caught the attention of a Premier League rival interested in one of their top players, as the transfer window continues to surprise us.
On Monday, Liverpool announced they’ve signed Ronald Araujo on a season-long loan from Barcelona, with the option to buy the Uruguayan centre-back for €55 million (£47.14 million) after the season ends. Araujo is the second new player at Anfield this summer, following Victor Munoz’s £34.5 million move from Osasuna in June.
After a slow start to the summer, things are heating up as the Reds push hard to strengthen their squad before the transfer window closes. Andoni Iraola is focusing on signing a wide forward, and Liverpool have been linked with Bradley Barcola. However, Paris Saint-Germain’s hefty £145 million price tag is making it tough to make a deal happen.
Liverpool expect to bring in more players before September 1, but they might also sell some first-team stars to raise money. They’ve already seen Ibrahima Konate, Andy Robertson, and Mohamed Salah leave after their contracts ended in June, with more exits likely.
There’s some uncertainty around Curtis Jones, who is a top target for Inter Milan and missed the recent win over Monaco with a minor hip injury. With just one year left on his contract, he could leave this summer. Tottenham is also interested in Cody Gakpo, and Federico Chiesa is still considering his options outside Anfield.
TalkSPORT reports that Alexis Mac Allister is another player drawing interest from rival clubs, with Manchester City looking at him as a possible replacement for Rodri. Mac Allister, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner who helped Argentina to the World Cup final, is in talks with Barcelona about a £55 million move. He’s seen as a cheaper option compared to Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.
Mac Allister returned to Liverpool training on Monday, eager to bounce back after a tough season under Arne Slot. Once a key player in Liverpool’s second Premier League title win in 2025, his form dipped last year.
While City might make a bid for the hardworking midfielder, The Athletic says he’s unlikely to leave unless a replacement is ready. For now, Liverpool are prioritizing strengthening other positions over selling him.
Still, an offer from Man City could sway Mac Allister to join their new project with Enzo Maresca, but he’s focused on preparing for his fourth season with Liverpool.
Liverpool’s final pre-season friendly is against Serie A’s Como on Sunday, August 16, before they face Newcastle United a week later in their Premier League opener. Mac Allister will be hoping to be ready to bring his World Cup form to club football.