Journalist: Liverpool will only sell one midfielder this summer as Jones and Mac Allister exit talk intensifies | OneFootball

Liverpool Midfield Faces Change as Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister Futures Questioned

Discussion on the Anfield Index podcast saw Dave Davis and Lewis Steele turn their attention to a key area of concern at Liverpool, the midfield. With Arne Slot preparing for a decisive summer, the futures of Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister have come into focus, alongside the strong likelihood of at least one departure.

One Midfielder Expected to Leave

Steele was direct about Liverpool’s plans, stating, “I think one of them two will leave this summer.” That assessment frames the situation clearly, Liverpool are not simply tweaking the midfield, they are preparing to reshape it.

The reasoning is both tactical and financial. Steele pointed to comments from Slot about balancing the books, explaining, “Slot mentioned last week… that they will have to balance the books.” In that context, midfield becomes a logical area for movement, particularly with players who retain market value.

Jones, in particular, appears vulnerable. Steele noted, “I think Jones is probably the more likely to leave,” highlighting his limited involvement in recent months as a contributing factor.

Alexis Mac Allister’s Mixed Form

Mac Allister’s situation is more nuanced. While not definitively heading for the exit, his performances have raised concerns. Steele did not hold back, saying, “Alexis Mac Allister has not been good enough for the whole season now.”

However, there is still belief in his ability to recover. Steele added, “I think over his three years at Liverpool, he’s had two very good seasons and one very bad season.” That context suggests patience may yet be shown, but improvement is essential.

Liverpool’s decision will likely depend on whether they view this season as an anomaly or a sign of decline. Steele made it clear he leans towards giving the player another chance, “I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt… I think he can bounce back.”

Photo: IMAGO

Squad Balance and Recruitment Needs

Even with a potential sale, Liverpool are not expected to reduce numbers without replacement. Steele stressed, “Liverpool definitely need to sign a midfielder regardless of that,” underlining the importance of depth and balance.

The issue extends beyond individual form. Steele highlighted structural problems, noting, “the midfield has been non-existent in quite a lot of big games.” That deficiency has exposed the need for a different profile, particularly a more defensive presence.

Liverpool’s inability to fully replace previous holding midfielders remains a concern. Steele explained, “they’ve never really replaced those holding midfielders who left,” pointing to a gap that must be addressed in the upcoming window.

Summer Decisions Will Shape Arne Slot’s System

The outcome of these decisions will directly influence how Arne Slot builds his team. Selling one of Jones or Mac Allister would create space for a new profile, potentially reshaping the midfield dynamic.

Steele summed up the balancing act facing the club, suggesting Liverpool will likely “sell at least one,” but warning against overextending, “I don’t think that they’ll want to be suddenly needing two midfielders because there’s a lot to do.”

For Liverpool, this is not just about personnel, it is about direction. The midfield has been inconsistent, and with financial considerations in play, change appears inevitable.

As the summer approaches, Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister stand at a crossroads, and Liverpool’s next move could define the effectiveness of Arne Slot’s second season.