Manchester City Eyes Alexis Mac Allister Amid Rodri Departure Talks

Manchester City is considering a move for Alexis Mac Allister as they prepare for the likely departure of midfielder Rodri, talkSPORT has learned. The Spanish international is close to joining Barcelona in a deal reportedly worth around £55 million.

The loss of Rodri poses a major challenge for City, who have made replacing him a top priority this summer. They already secured Elliot Anderson for £116 million and are negotiating with Lille over Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, with personal terms agreed.

Mac Allister on City's Radar

Surprisingly, Liverpool's Mac Allister has emerged as a potential target for City. Since arriving from Brighton in 2023, he has been a key player in Liverpool’s midfield, contributing to their Premier League title win in 2025. Despite a dip in form last season and facing some criticism, Mac Allister still holds value.

Insider Ben Jacobs mentioned that City sees Mac Allister as a more affordable alternative compared to other targets like Adam Wharton and Enzo Fernandez, both linked due to connections with City's new coach Enzo Maresca. Jacobs stated, “Internally Alexis Mac Allister has been mentioned, but there’s no contact or developments with Liverpool yet. It’s part of a shortlisting process rather than anything concrete.”

Midfield Options and Costs

Fernandez, a Chelsea star, has attracted much attention this summer. Despite rumors about a Real Madrid move, the Spanish club publicly denied interest. With a £120 million price tag, Fernandez’s transfer seems costly, especially as City also pursues Bouaddi for nearly £100 million and already signed Anderson for £116 million.

Jacobs explained the situation: “Chelsea remain calm and want to keep Fernandez if the price isn’t met. He’s a World Cup winner and was vice-captain at Chelsea. If their valuation is met, an exit is possible. Though Fernandez showed interest in Real Madrid, the asking price likely deterred them.”

Mac Allister’s Role and Value

Mac Allister played a vital role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup win and scored five goals in Liverpool’s 2024/25 league-winning campaign. Currently with two years left on his contract, his transfer fee might be lower than other midfield targets. This affordability makes him an intriguing option for City as they balance their midfield overhaul.

• Rodri: Expected to join Barcelona for around £55 million
• Elliot Anderson: Signed by City for £116 million
• Ayyoub Bouaddi: In advanced talks, estimated near £100 million
• Enzo Fernandez: Chelsea player valued at £120 million, linked to City and Real Madrid
• Alexis Mac Allister: Liverpool midfielder, potentially more affordable, two years left on contract

City faces a tough balancing act between big-money signings and smart alternatives as they prepare for Rodri’s likely exit. Mac Allister’s name in their shortlist might stir emotions among Liverpool fans given the rivalry, but it underlines the lengths City will go to secure midfield strength.