Journalist: Liverpool are not in talks with £35m star despite Real Madrid interest | OneFootball

Alexis Mac Allister Future in Doubt as Liverpool Delay Contract Talks

Alexis Mac Allister’s position at Liverpool has come under fresh scrutiny, with uncertainty surrounding both his performances and contractual situation. Reporting from Lewis Steele of the Daily Mail highlights a key development, “no talks have started over a new contract for Mac Allister.”

That detail is significant. While his current deal runs until 2028, Liverpool’s reluctance to open negotiations has sparked discussion about his long term future. Steele notes that “by the time his current deal expires, in the summer of 2028, Mac Allister will be 29,” a factor that aligns with Fenway Sports Group’s cautious approach to contract renewals.

Sellable Asset Narrative Emerges

“There is a lot of chat about another of Liverpool’s South Americans,” Steele writes, with Mac Allister now viewed by some as “Liverpool’s most sellable asset this summer.” That framing reflects both his market value and the club’s broader strategy.

Liverpool’s ownership model has precedent. “They do not like to give big deals to players on the wrong side of 30,” a stance previously seen with Georginio Wijnaldum. In that context, the lack of urgency over Mac Allister’s contract becomes easier to understand, even if it raises concerns externally.

Interest from elite clubs is also part of the conversation. “Would Real Madrid step up their reported interest,” Steele asks, though he acknowledges such links are often speculative.

Photo: IMAGO

Performance Levels Under Scrutiny

Statistically, Mac Allister’s season shows only minor regression. “He has fewer assists, his pass accuracy has gone down and he is creating fewer chances per 90 minutes. However, all of these statistical changes are only very marginal.”

There are positives too. “He is running more this year and being dribbled past less,” suggesting his defensive contribution has improved. Yet, numbers alone do not tell the full story.

“But you don’t need the numbers to tell you Mac Allister is struggling. The eye test will tell you that.” That assessment is perhaps the most telling, pointing to a player whose influence has dipped despite relatively stable underlying metrics.

Key Decision Looms for Liverpool

Liverpool now face a crucial call. Mac Allister arrived for around £35 million, but Steele raises an important question, “What would the £35m signing be worth now?”

With no contract talks underway and performance levels under debate, the club must decide whether to back him or capitalise on his value. The situation is not urgent, but it is evolving.

For Mac Allister, the coming months could define whether he remains a core part of Liverpool’s midfield or becomes a high profile departure.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan perspective, the lack of contract talks is the biggest concern here. Alexis Mac Allister is not a fringe player, he is someone who has been central to how Liverpool function in midfield, even if his performances have dipped.

The idea that he could be the club’s most sellable asset feels slightly uncomfortable. It suggests Liverpool may already be thinking about value rather than role, and that often signals a shift in long term planning.

There is no doubt his level has dropped. The eye test supports that. He looks less influential, less decisive, and at times caught between roles. However, the marginal statistical decline suggests this is not a player in steep regression, but one struggling within the current system.

Selling him now would feel premature. Liverpool still lack midfielders who can control games consistently, and Mac Allister remains one of the few who can do that.

If anything, this situation points to a need for tactical clarity rather than transfer action. Define his role properly, build around his strengths, and the value conversation may quickly disappear.