Anfield Index
·24 July 2026
Liverpool midfield update: Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones and more

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·24 July 2026

Liverpool’s midfield remains one of the most intriguing areas of Andoni Iraola’s squad as preparations continue during the club’s pre season tour of the United States. While transfer speculation has largely centred on new attackers and defensive reinforcements, the discussion between Lewis Steele and Dave Davis on Media Matters for Anfield Index made it clear that the midfield picture is far from settled.
The conversation covered everything from Trey Nyoni’s emergence to Curtis Jones’ uncertain future, but perhaps the most significant takeaway concerned Alexis Mac Allister, a player who continues to attract outside interest despite Liverpool’s determination to retain him.
Although Liverpool have been linked with several midfielders over recent months, Steele believes recruitment in that area has gone noticeably quiet.
Discussing the current state of the squad, he explained:
“They’re a defender light and they’re a midfielder light.”
Yet despite acknowledging those shortcomings, he also suggested the club’s priorities may have shifted elsewhere.
“It’s very, very quiet at the moment with Liverpool transfers, especially in the midfield and defence. There’s a bit more talk about attackers.”
That assessment fits with Iraola’s own public comments regarding defensive depth and his desire to strengthen out wide, leaving the existing midfield group with an opportunity to convince the new head coach they already possess the quality required.
Naturally, Alexis Mac Allister’s future was raised during the discussion, particularly after recent links with Real Madrid.
Dave Davis referenced Iraola’s comments from his press conference.
“I think Alexis has been one of the best at the club in years. It’s normal other clubs want the best players. Other clubs want my good players, but I’m looking to sign players then lose the ones we have here.”
Steele’s interpretation was measured rather than dramatic.
“It was a bit of a hands off warning from him the other day.”

Photo: IMAGO
He also acknowledged that football’s biggest clubs inevitably test the resolve of elite sides.
“If Real Madrid were to put a massive bid on the table, Liverpool might look into it.”
Even so, Steele’s overall verdict remained reassuring for Liverpool supporters.
“As it stands, Mac Allister looks set to stay.”
He continued by adding:
“I think the talk of the Real Madrid thing has been rubbish by a few people now.”
Those comments suggest Liverpool remain relaxed about the Argentine’s immediate future, even if speculation continues to circulate.
The wider midfield conversation also highlighted how competitive places could become under Iraola.
Curtis Jones remains in an uncertain position, with Steele revealing:
“I would still say that his future is up in the air.”
He added that despite approaches from Inter and interest elsewhere:
“As we stand with a month or so to go over the window, it’s still probably 50, 50 whether he stays or goes.”

Photo: IMAGO
Meanwhile, Trey Nyoni continues to enhance his reputation after impressing throughout pre season.
Steele earlier described the youngster as “really stepping up in this preseason”, before later suggesting that Iraola’s faith in youth could open the door for more opportunities.
That leaves Liverpool with an interesting balance. Experienced internationals such as Mac Allister remain the foundation of the midfield, while emerging talents push for greater involvement and established squad players battle for their futures.
One of the more revealing moments came when Dave Davis questioned whether midfield recruitment had slipped down Liverpool’s list of priorities.
Steele replied:
“It does seem that way.”
He continued by suggesting Iraola may already have greater confidence in the current options than many supporters.
“Maybe Iraola fancies the current midfield more than the fans may do.”
That thought may prove significant over the coming weeks. Liverpool continue to be linked with reinforcements across several positions, but unless departures create space, the current midfield group appears set to receive the first opportunity to impress.
For Alexis Mac Allister, that means remaining one of the cornerstones of Iraola’s new project. For Curtis Jones, it could determine whether his Liverpool career continues. For Trey Nyoni, it offers the chance to accelerate his development.
As Steele concluded, the midfield market remains quiet for now, but with more than a month of the transfer window remaining, Liverpool’s plans could still evolve quickly. Until then, Iraola’s focus appears firmly fixed on assessing the talent already at his disposal.


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