Manchester City Eye Alexis Mac Allister as Potential Rodri Replacement
Manchester City are exploring the possibility of signing Alexis Mac Allister as they prepare for the likely departure of midfielder Rodri, sources from talkSPORT reveal.
Rodri is close to finalizing a move to Barcelona in a deal reportedly worth around £55 million. Losing such a key player would be a significant setback for City, and finding his replacement has become a central focus during this summer’s transfer window.
Current Transfer Plans
City have already made moves to bolster their midfield, securing Elliot Anderson for £116 million at the start of the window. They are also advancing discussions with Lille over Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, with personal terms agreed.
Still, the club might seek further reinforcements if Rodri’s exit is confirmed, examining several options to strengthen the squad.
A Surprising Candidate: Alexis Mac Allister
talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs has disclosed that Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister is among the names Manchester City is considering. Since joining Liverpool from Brighton in 2023, Mac Allister has been a regular presence in the Reds’ midfield. He recently entered the last two years of his Anfield contract.
After playing a key role in Liverpool’s Premier League triumph in 2025, Mac Allister faced a dip in form last season, coinciding with Liverpool finishing fifth under Arne Slot. This led to some calls for him to be dropped.
Jacobs noted that Mac Allister could be a more affordable option compared to other midfield targets like Adam Wharton and Enzo Fernandez, who have connections to new Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca from Chelsea.
“I know internally Alexis Mac Allister has been mentioned, but there’s been no contact yet or developments with Liverpool. So that’s just part of a shortlisting process,” Jacobs said. “Some people have mentioned Adam Wharton too. If Enzo Maresca had his say, he might prefer Enzo Fernandez, but the price is a huge hurdle. Right now, City’s main focus is on getting Bouaddi over the line.”
Mac Allister’s Track Record
Despite recent struggles, Mac Allister has shown his worth in title-winning teams. He was pivotal 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 transfer to Liverpool involved a £55 million package in 2023. Although the asking price for City is uncertain, it is probably much lower than the cost for Fernandez or Wharton.
The Enzo Fernandez Factor
Enzo Fernandez, currently at Chelsea, remains one of the most talked-about players this summer. At 25, Fernandez hinted at a potential move to Real Madrid late last season, but the Spanish club publicly denied plans to sign him.
His situation at Chelsea is unclear, and Manchester City could offer him a reunion with former Blues manager Enzo Maresca at the Etihad Stadium. Maresca left Chelsea amid disagreements earlier this year, a decision Fernandez seemed to criticize.
Fernandez carries a hefty £120 million price tag, making City cautious about spending so much after already investing heavily in other midfielders.
Jacobs explained: “Chelsea’s asking price was £120 million, possibly higher considering recent big deals like Elliot Anderson’s £116 million. Chelsea may argue Fernandez is worth it—he’s a World Cup winner and has captained Chelsea. They’re calm and intend to try securing a new contract if the window closes without a sale. But if the valuation is met, a transfer could happen.”
With Rodri moving to Barcelona, speculation about Real Madrid’s interest in Fernandez remains low due to the high asking price, according to Jacobs.
“Real Madrid were put off by the price. City, particularly Enzo Maresca, appreciate Fernandez but might find the budget tough. With Bouaddi near £100 million and Anderson £116 million, paying £120 million for Fernandez is a big financial commitment. There might be cheaper alternatives.”
