Manchester City Eyes Alexis Mac Allister Amid Rodri Exit Talks
Manchester City is reportedly considering a move for Alexis Mac Allister as they prepare for the likely departure of midfielder Rodri. The Spanish World Cup winner is close to a £55 million transfer to Barcelona, with an agreement expected soon.
City's Midfield Shakeup
Losing Rodri would be a significant setback, prompting City to explore multiple midfield reinforcements. They've already signed Elliot Anderson for £116 million and are in advanced talks for Moroccan star Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille, with personal terms settled.
Additional options are on the table should Rodri leave, including a surprising name from rival Liverpool. Ben Jacobs of talkSPORT revealed that City has shortlisted Mac Allister, who has been a key player for Liverpool since joining from Brighton in 2023 and is now in the last two years of his contract.
Mac Allister: A Budget-Friendly Option?
Despite a dip in form last season when Liverpool finished fifth, Mac Allister was instrumental in their 2025 Premier League title and Argentina's 2022 World Cup win. Compared to pricier targets like Adam Wharton and Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister may be a more affordable pick for City this summer.
"I know internally Alexis Mac Allister has been mentioned, but there’s been no contact yet, or developments with Liverpool. So that’s just more part of a shortlisting process than anything to get excited about," said Jacobs.
Jacobs also noted that Enzo Maresca, City's new boss, might prefer Fernandez, given their past Chelsea connection, though City's focus remains on securing Bouaddi first.
Enzo Fernandez’s Complex Situation
Enzo Fernandez has drawn attention this summer amid rumors of a Real Madrid move, which was publicly denied by the Spanish club. Fernandez’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain, and a reunion with Maresca at Manchester City could be tempting.
Chelsea values Fernandez at around £120 million. Given the hefty fees for Anderson (£116 million) and Bouaddi (close to £100 million), City might hesitate to spend heavily again on Fernandez.
"Chelsea may argue that Enzo Fernandez should be more. He’s a World Cup winner, vice-captain and captain at times of Chelsea," Jacobs explained. "They have every intent to keep him if the price isn't met, but an exit is possible."
Rodri's move to Barcelona seems imminent, but Real Madrid’s stance suggests they won’t pursue Fernandez despite prior interest.
Midfield Spending Could Shift Strategy
City faces a balancing act with midfield transfers. Between Bouaddi, Anderson, and possibly Fernandez, expenses could soar beyond £300 million. This may open the door for more cost-effective alternatives like Mac Allister.
- Rodri: Expected to join Barcelona for £55 million
- Elliot Anderson: Signed for £116 million
- Ayyoub Bouaddi: Personal terms agreed, fee near £100 million
- Enzo Fernandez: Valued at £120 million by Chelsea
- Alexis Mac Allister: Potential affordable option, current Liverpool player
