Sources: Liverpool have new top target after Jude Bellingham deal collapses – Klopp is ‘huge’ fan
Liverpool have made Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister their top midfield target this summer after pulling out of the race to sign Jude Bellingham, sources have told Football Insider.
It has been widely reported, by Football Insider and others this week, that the Reds have ended their pursuit of Bellingham, but Jurgen Klopp is still eager to rebuild his midfield department in the transfer window.
Mac Allister, 24, has now emerged as a top target for the Merseyside club, with Klopp said by sources to be a “huge admirer” of his versatility.
Ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Brighton this season, Klopp praised Mac Allister and midfield partner Moises Caicedo – “It’s massively important how you defend the first line against Brighton, they are that good with Caicedo and Mac Allister.”
The Brighton star is viewed by the Liverpool recruitment team as a cheaper alternative to Bellingham, but still a player that can inject energy and creativity to the side.
Liverpool are confident that they can lure Mac Allister away from the Amex Stadium this summer, and have been boosted by comments made by the player’s father.
“Clubs are starting to call us for Alexis but there are no concrete talks now,” Mac Allister’s father, Carlos, said.
“We’ll decide together with Brighton, they deserve respect. We will pick the best project, based on the coach too – it’s not about money.”
Mac Allister has been key to the Seagulls’ success this season, with the World Cup winner scoring 10 goals and assisting twice this season to help Brighton climb up to seventh in the Premier League table.
In other news, 20-year-old could leave Liverpool for new club next season as overhaul begins