Sources: Liverpool give Real Madrid encouragement in Alexis Mac Allister pursuit

Liverpool could sanction Alexis Mac Allister's exit this summer if he attracts more suitors by impressing at the World Cup.

The Reds midfielder is expected to play a key role in Argentina's defence of their World Cup crown over the next month.

He earned a move to Liverpool after being a key part of their 2022 triumph, but has seen his form fall off over the last 12 months after two impressive seasons at Anfield.

Mac Allister suffered from recurring injury issues in 2025-26 and looked off the pace for most of the campaign as Liverpool's poor form coincided with his struggles.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, he is one of the most likely senior stars to leave the club in the summer window as Real Madrid eye a move.

New Los Blancos boss Mourinho is keen to add Mac Allister to his ranks following the impending signing of Bernardo Silva.

They have also been linked with a move for Dominik Szoboszlai, but Liverpool's reluctance to let the Hungarian star leave means a move for Mac Allister looks much more likely.

Mac Allister's decline over the last campaign means that new Reds boss Andoni Iraola will look to add to his midfield as the 28-year-old potentially moves on.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Liverpool have to wheel and deal in the market this summer to try and raise some cash to boost their own transfer kitty.

"Mac Allister is somebody that they could reluctantly cash in on. He still has good value and is a World Cup winner, so if he goes and has a good World Cup again this month, then that'll obviously maybe bring other teams to the table as well.

"Liverpool, right now, are looking to strengthen rather than weaken the squad, but if they are needing to sell players, Mac Allister could be one of those that could be sacrificed."

Mac Allister's departure would free up funds and a place in the squad for Iraola to spend big on a new addition.

Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Wharton is Liverpool's top target for the middle of the park as it stands.

Their scouts were hugely impressed by his performances for Crystal Palace over the last campaign, as he was a driving force behind their Conference League triumph.

With Man City focusing on Elliot Anderson and Man United advancing in a move for Mateus Fernandes, the path looks clear for the Reds to swoop for Wharton this summer.