Manchester City Eye Surprise Move for Alexis Mac Allister Amid Rodri Exit

Manchester City is exploring options for a replacement following the likely departure of their key midfielder Rodri, who is nearing a move to Barcelona. The transfer to Camp Nou is reportedly close to completion, with a £55 million agreement expected soon.

Losing Rodri would be a significant setback for City, but finding his successor has been a priority this summer. The club has already signed Elliot Anderson for £116 million and is in advanced talks with Lille to bring in Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with personal terms settled.

Unexpected Target Emerges

According to talkSPORT's Ben Jacobs, Alexis Mac Allister, currently at Liverpool, is on City's shortlist as a potential midfield reinforcement. Mac Allister, an Argentina international, joined Liverpool from Brighton in 2023 and has been a regular in their midfield, though his form dipped last season as Liverpool finished fifth.

Mac Allister’s contract with Liverpool has just two years remaining, making him a more affordable option compared to other targets such as Adam Wharton and Enzo Fernandez. Both Wharton and Fernandez have connections with new City boss Enzo Maresca from their time at Chelsea.

"Internally, Alexis Mac Allister has been mentioned, but no contact or developments with Liverpool have occurred yet," Jacobs told talkSPORT's Transfer Insiders. "This is just part of a shortlisting process. Some have also mentioned Adam Wharton, and in an ideal scenario, Maresca might prefer Enzo Fernandez. However, the price is a big obstacle. Right now, City's focus remains on finalizing Bouaddi's transfer."

Mac Allister’s Recent Achievements

Despite a tough campaign with Liverpool, Mac Allister has shown his quality in recent title-winning teams. He was a key figure in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory, scored five goals during Liverpool's 2024/25 Premier League-winning season, and earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year. His initial transfer to Liverpool cost £55 million, and any potential asking price now is believed to be lower than other midfield targets City is considering.

Enzo Fernandez's Situation

Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez has attracted considerable attention this summer amid transfer speculation. The 25-year-old hinted at a possible Real Madrid move late last season, but Madrid publicly denied interest. His future at Chelsea remains uncertain, and a switch to Manchester City could appeal, especially since it would reunite him with former Chelsea manager Maresca, who left Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day after disagreements with the club.

Fernandez carries a hefty £120 million price tag. Jacobs suggests that City might hesitate to commit to another high-value midfield signing given the costs of Anderson and Bouaddi. Chelsea appears calm about Fernandez's situation and intends to offer a new contract if the window closes without a sale.

"Chelsea’s asking price was £120 million, possibly higher when considering other major deals like Elliot Anderson’s £116 million. Chelsea may argue Fernandez deserves that price, as a World Cup winner and past Chelsea captain," Jacobs said. "If their valuation is met, an exit could happen. Fernandez has flirted with a Real Madrid move, but official statements suggest Madrid won’t pursue him. While you can never say never, that price seems to have deterred them."

Jacobs added that City values Fernandez but must weigh budgets carefully. With Bouaddi near £100 million and Anderson at £116 million, adding Fernandez at over £120 million would mean a huge spending spree in midfield, encouraging consideration of more budget-friendly options.

• Potential Transfers:
• Rodri: Expected move to Barcelona for around £55 million.
• Elliot Anderson: Signed by Manchester City for £116 million.
• Ayyoub Bouaddi: In advanced talks with Lille; personal terms agreed.
• Alexis Mac Allister: Liverpool midfielder, valued less than Fernandez and Wharton.
• Enzo Fernandez: Chelsea star with a £120 million asking price.
• Adam Wharton: Another midfield option linked to City.